Artificial intervertebral disc having limited rotation using a captured ball and socket joint with a solid ball, a compression locking post, and an interference ball bearing

ABSTRACT

An artificial disc having a pair of opposing baseplates, for seating against opposing vertebral bone surfaces, separated by a ball and socket joint that includes a ball compression locked to a post extending from one of the baseplates. The ball is captured within a curvate socket formed in a peak of a convex structure attached to the other of the baseplates. The socket is formed by opposing curvate surfaces, one on the convex structure and one on the other of the baseplates. While the ball angulates freely in the socket, the rotation of the ball in the socket has a limited range due to interference between a ball bearing and curvate recesses on the convex structure and the ball. The ball and socket joint therefore permits the baseplates to rotate relative to one another through a limited range and also angulate relative to one another.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is a continuing application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/256,160 (filed Sep. 26, 2002) entitled“Artificial Intervertebral Disc Having Limited Rotation Using a CapturedBall and Socket Joint With a Solid Ball and Compression Locking Post”,which is a continuing application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/175,417 (filed Jun. 19, 2002) entitled “Artificial IntervertebralDisc Utilizing a Ball Joint Coupling”, which is a continuing applicationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/151,280 (filed May 20, 2002)entitled “Tension Bearing Artificial Disc Providing a Centroid of MotionCentrally Located Within an Intervertebral Space”, which is a continuingapplication of both U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/970,479 (filedOct. 4, 2001) entitled “Intervertebral Spacer Device Utilizing aSpirally Slotted Belleville Washer Having Radially Extending Grooves” aswell as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/140,153 (filed May 7, 2002)entitled “Artificial Intervertebral Disc Having a Flexible Wire MeshVertebral Body Contact Element”, the former being a continuingapplication of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/968,046 (filed Oct.1, 2001) entitled “Intervertebral Spacer Device Utilizing a BellevilleWasher Having Radially Extending Grooves” and the latter being acontinuing application of both U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/970,479 (detailed above) as well as U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/128,619 (filed Apr. 23, 2002) entitled “Intervertebral Spacer Havinga Flexible Wire Mesh Vertebral Body Contact Element”, which is acontinuing application of both U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/906,119 (filed Jul. 16, 2001) and entitled “Trial IntervertebralDistraction Spacers” as well as U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/982,148 (filed Oct. 18, 2001) and entitled “Intervertebral SpacerDevice Having Arch Shaped Spring Elements”. All of the above mentionedapplications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in theirrespective entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to a spinal implant assembly forimplantation into the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebralbones to simultaneously provide stabilization and continued flexibilityand proper anatomical motion, and more specifically to such a devicethat has limited rotation using a captured ball and socket joint with asolid ball, a compression locking post, and an interference ballbearing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The bones and connective tissue of an adult human spinal columnconsists of more than twenty discrete bones coupled sequentially to oneanother by a tri-joint complex that consists of an anterior disc and thetwo posterior facet joints, the anterior discs of adjacent bones beingcushioned by cartilage spacers referred to as intervertebral discs.These more than twenty bones are anatomically categorized as beingmembers of one of four classifications: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, orsacral. The cervical portion of the spine, which comprises the top ofthe spine, up to the base of the skull, includes the first sevenvertebrae. The intermediate twelve bones are the thoracic vertebrae, andconnect to the lower spine comprising the five lumbar vertebrae. Thebase of the spine is the sacral bones (including the coccyx). Thecomponent bones of the cervical spine are generally smaller than thoseof the thoracic spine, which are in turn smaller than those of thelumbar region. The sacral region connects laterally to the pelvis. Whilethe sacral region is an integral part of the spine, for the purposes offusion surgeries and for this disclosure, the word spine shall referonly to the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions.

[0004] The spinal column is highly complex in that it includes thesemore than twenty bones coupled to one another, housing and protectingcritical elements of the nervous system having innumerable peripheralnerves and circulatory bodies in close proximity. In spite of thesecomplications, the spine is a highly flexible structure, capable of ahigh degree of curvature and twist in nearly every direction.

[0005] Genetic or developmental irregularities, trauma, chronic stress,tumors, and degenerative wear are a few of the causes that can result inspinal pathologies for which surgical intervention may be necessary. Avariety of systems have been disclosed in the art that achieveimmobilization and/or fusion of adjacent bones by implanting artificialassemblies in or on the spinal column. The region of the back that needsto be immobilized, as well as the individual variations in anatomy,determine the appropriate surgical protocol and implantation assembly.With respect to the failure of the intervertebral disc, the interbodyfusion cage has generated substantial interest because it can beimplanted laparoscopically into the anterior of the spine, thus reducingoperating room time, patient recovery time, and scarification.

[0006] Referring now to FIGS. 13-14, in which a side perspective view ofan intervertebral body cage and an anterior perspective view of a postimplantation spinal column are shown, respectively, a more completedescription of these devices of the prior art is herein provided. Thesecages 1 generally comprise tubular metal body 2 having an externalsurface threading 3. They are inserted transverse to the axis of thespine 4, into preformed cylindrical holes at the junction of adjacentvertebral bodies (in FIG. 14 the pair of cages 1 are inserted betweenthe fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) and the top of the sacrum (S1)). Twocages 1 are generally inserted side by side with the external threading4 tapping into the lower surface of the vertebral bone above (L5), andthe upper surface of the vertebral bone (S1) below. The cages 1 includeholes 5 through which the adjacent bones are to grow. Additionalmaterials, for example autogenous bone graft materials, may be insertedinto the hollow interior 6 of the cage 1 to incite or accelerate thegrowth of the bone into the cage. End caps (not shown) are oftenutilized to hold the bone graft material within the cage 1.

[0007] These cages of the prior art have enjoyed medical success inpromoting fusion and grossly approximating proper disc height. It is,however, important to note that the fusion of the adjacent bones is anincomplete solution to the underlying pathology as it does not cure theailment, but rather simply masks the pathology under a stabilizingbridge of bone. This bone fusion limits the overall flexibility of thespinal column and artificially constrains the normal motion of thepatient. This constraint can cause collateral injury to the patient'sspine as additional stresses of motion, normally borne by the now-fusedjoint, are transferred onto the nearby facet joints and intervertebraldiscs. It would therefore, be a considerable advance in the art toprovide an implant assembly which does not promote fusion, but, rather,which mimics the biomechanical action of the natural disc cartilage,thereby permitting continued normal motion and stress distribution.

[0008] It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide anintervertebral spacer that stabilizes the spine without promoting a bonefusion across the intervertebral space.

[0009] It is further an object of the invention to provide an implantdevice that stabilizes the spine while still permitting normal motion.

[0010] It is further an object of the invention to provide a device forimplantation into the intervertebral space that does not promote theabnormal distribution of biomechanical stresses on the patient's spine.

[0011] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that provides free rotation of the baseplates relative to oneanother.

[0012] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that provides limited rotation of the baseplates relative to oneanother.

[0013] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that supports compression loads.

[0014] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that permits the baseplates to axially compress toward one anotherunder a compressive load.

[0015] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that permits the baseplates to axially compress toward one anotherunder a compressive load and restore to their original uncompressedrelative positions when the compressive load is relieved.

[0016] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that supports tension loads.

[0017] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that prevents lateral translation of the baseplates relative to oneanother.

[0018] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc that provides a centroid of motion centrally located within theintervertebral space.

[0019] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc baseplate attachment device (for attaching the baseplates of theartificial disc to the vertebral bones between which the disc isimplanted) with superior gripping and holding strength upon initialimplantation and thereafter.

[0020] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc baseplate attachment device that deflects during insertion of theartificial disc between vertebral bodies.

[0021] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc baseplate attachment device that conforms to the concave surface ofa vertebral body.

[0022] It is further an object of the invention to provide an artificialdisc baseplate attachment device that does not restrict the angle atwhich the artificial disc can be implanted.

[0023] It is further an object of the invention to provide an implantattachment device (for attaching the implant to bone) with superiorgripping and holding strength upon initial implantation and thereafter.

[0024] It is further an object of the invention to provide an implantattachment device that is deflectable.

[0025] It is further an object of the invention to provide an implantattachment device that conforms to a concave bone surface.

[0026] Other objects of the invention not explicitly stated will be setforth and will be more clearly understood in conjunction with thedescriptions of the preferred embodiments disclosed hereafter.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The preceding objects are achieved by the invention, which is anartificial intervertebral disc or intervertebral spacer devicecomprising a pair of support members (e.g., spaced apart baseplates),each with an outwardly facing surface. Because the artificial disc is tobe positioned between the facing endplates of adjacent vertebral bodies,the baseplates are arranged in a substantially parallel planar alignment(or slightly offset relative to one another in accordance with properlordotic angulation) with the outwardly facing surfaces facing away fromone another. The baseplates are to mate with the vertebral bodies so asto not rotate relative thereto, but rather to permit the spinal segmentsto bend (and in some embodiments, axially compress) relative to oneanother in manners that mimic the natural motion of the spinal segment.This natural motion is permitted by the performance of a ball and socketjoint (and in some embodiments, a spring member) disposed between thesecured baseplates, and the securing of the baseplates to the vertebralbone is achieved through the use of a vertebral body contact elementattached to the outwardly facing surface of each baseplate.

[0028] Preferable vertebral body contact elements include, but are notlimited to, one or more of the following: a convex mesh, a convex soliddome, and one or more spikes. The convex mesh is preferably secured atits perimeter to the outwardly facing surface of the respectivebaseplate. This can be accomplished in any effective manner, however,laser welding and plasma coating burying are two preferred methods whenthe mesh is comprised of metal. While domed in its initial undeflectedconformation, the mesh deflects as necessary during insertion of theartificial disc between vertebral bodies, and, once the artificial discis seated between the vertebral bodies, the mesh deforms as necessaryunder anatomical loads to reshape itself to the concave surface of thevertebral endplate. Thus, the mesh is deformably reshapeable underanatomical loads such that it conformably deflects against the concavesurface to securably engage the vertebral body endplate. Statedalternatively, because the mesh is convexly shaped and is secured at itsperimeter to the baseplate, the mesh is biased away from the baseplatebut moveable toward the plate (under a load overcoming the bias; such aload is present, for example, as an anatomical load in theintervertebral space) so that it will securably engage the vertebralbody endplate when disposed in the intervertebral space. This affordsthe baseplate having the mesh substantially superior gripping andholding strength upon initial implantation, as compared with otherartificial disc products. The convex mesh further provides anosteoconductive surface through which the bone may ultimately grow. Themesh preferably is comprised of titanium, but can also be formed fromother metals and/or non-metals. Inasmuch as the mesh is domed, it doesnot restrict the angle at which the artificial disc can be implanted. Itshould be understood that while the flexible dome is described hereinpreferably as a wire mesh, other meshed or solid flexible elements canalso be used, including flexible elements comprised of non-metals and/orother metals. Further, the flexibility, deflectability and/ordeformability need not be provided by a flexible material, but canadditionally or alternatively be provided mechanically or by othermeans.

[0029] It should be understood that the convex mesh attachment devicesand methods described herein can be used not only with the artificialdiscs and artificial disc baseplates described or referred to herein,but also with other artificial discs and artificial disc baseplates,including, but not limited to, those currently known in the art.Therefore, the description of the mesh attachment devices and methodsbeing used with the artificial discs and artificial disc baseplatesdescribed or referred to herein should not be construed as limiting theapplication and/or usefulness of the mesh attachment device.

[0030] To enhance the securing of the baseplates to the vertebral bones,each baseplate further comprises a porous area, which at least extendsin a ring around the lateral rim of each outwardly facing surface. Theporous area may be, for example, a sprayed deposition layer, or anadhesive applied beaded metal layer, or another suitable porous coatingknown in the art. The porous ring permits the long-term ingrowth ofvertebral bone into the baseplate, thus permanently securing theprosthesis within the intervertebral space. The porous layer may extendbeneath the domed mesh as well, but is more importantly applied to thelateral rim of the outwardly facing surface of the baseplate that seatsdirectly against the vertebral body.

[0031] Some of the embodiments described herein uses two baseplates eachhaving the above described convex mesh on its outwardly facing surface,while other embodiments use two baseplates each having a convex soliddome in combination with a plurality of spikes on the lateral rim of theoutwardly facing surface of the baseplates. It should be understood,however, that the various attachments devices or methods describedherein (as well as any other attachment devices or methods, such as, forexample, keels) can be used individually or in combination in anypermutation, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0032] The ball and socket joint disposed between the baseplates permitsrotation and angulation of the two baseplates relative to one anotherabout a centroid of motion centrally located between the baseplates. Awide variety of embodiments are contemplated, some in which the ball andsocket joint permits free relative rotation of the baseplates, andothers in which the ball and socket joint limits relative rotation ofthe baseplates to a certain range. Further in some embodiments, the balland socket joint is used in conjunction with a spring member toadditionally permit the two baseplates to axially compress relative toone another. Further in each of the embodiments, the assembly will notseparate under tension loading, and prevents lateral translation of thebaseplates during rotation and angulation.

[0033] More particularly, four embodiment families are described hereinas examples of the present invention, with a preferred embodiment forthe first embodiment family, a preferred embodiment for the secondembodiment family, five preferred embodiments for the third embodimentfamily, and five embodiments for the fourth embodiment family, eachbeing described in detail. However, it should be understood that thedescribed embodiments and embodiment families are merely examples thatillustrate aspects and features of the present invention, and that otherembodiments and embodiment families are possible without departing fromthe scope of the invention.

[0034] Each of the embodiments in the four embodiment families discussedherein share the same basic elements, some of which retain identicalfunctionality and configuration across the embodiments, and some ofwhich gain or lose functionality and/or configuration across theembodiments to accommodate mechanical and/or manufacturing necessities.More specifically, each of the embodiments includes two baseplatesjoined to one another by a ball and socket joint that is establishedcentrally between the baseplates. Each ball and socket joint isestablished by a socket being formed at the peak (or in the peak) of aconvex structure extending from the second baseplate, and by a ballbeing secured to the first baseplate and being captured in the socket sothat when the joint is placed under a tension or compression force, theball remains rotatably and angulatably secure in the socket. However,the convex structure is configured differently in each of the embodimentfamilies, and the manner in which the ball is captured in the socket isdifferent in each of the embodiment families. Each of these twovariations (the configuration of the convex structure and the manner ofcapturing the ball in the socket) among the embodiments families issummarized immediately below, and will be understood further in light ofthe additional descriptions of the embodiments herein. It should benoted that although each of the embodiment families uses a preferredshape for the convex structure (e.g., in the first and second embodimentfamilies, the preferred shape is frusto-conical, and in the third andfourth embodiment families, the preferred shape is a shape having acurved taper), the convex structure in each of the embodiment familiesis not limited to a particular shape. For example, shapes including, butnot limited to, frusto-conical, hemispherical or semispherical shapes,shapes having sloped tapers or curved tapers, or shapes havingnon-uniform, irregular or dimensionally varying tapers or contours,would also be suitable in any of the embodiment families.

[0035] With regard to the first embodiment family, the convex structureis configured as a flexible element and functions as a spring elementthat provides axial cushioning to the device. The convex structure hasthe socket of the ball and socket joint at its peak. In order to permitthe flexible convex structure to flex under compressive loads applied tothe device, it is separated from the second baseplate. In the preferredembodiment, the flexible convex structure is a belleville washer thathas a frusto-conical shape. Other flexible convex structures are alsocontemplated as being suitable, such as, for example, convex structuresthat flex because of the resilience of the material from which they aremade, because of the shape into which they are formed, and/or or becauseof the mechanical interaction between sub-elements of an assemblyforming the convex structure. Although the convex structure is aseparate element from the second baseplate in this embodiment family(because it must be allowed to flex), it is preferably maintained nearthe second baseplate so that the device does not separate in tension.Therefore, an extension of the second baseplate is provided (in the formof a shield element) to cover enough of the convex structure to somaintain it. Stated alternatively, the shield is a separate element fromthe second baseplate to ease manufacturing (during assembly, theflexible convex structure is first placed against the second baseplate,and then the shield is placed over the convex structure and secured tothe second baseplate so that the convex structure is maintained betweenthe second baseplate and the shield), but once the device is assembled,the second baseplate and the shield are effectively one element. Thatis, the second baseplate and shield can be considered to be a singleintegral housing within which the separate flexible convex structureflexes, because but for the sake of achieving desirable manufacturingefficiencies, the second baseplate and shield would be one piece.

[0036] Also with regard to the first embodiment family, the manner ofcapturing the ball in the socket is effected by the ball beingselectively radially compressible. That is, the ball is radiallycompressible to fit into the socket and thereafter receives a deflectionpreventing element to prevent subsequent radial compression, so that theball remains captured in the socket. A more detailed description of thepreferred manner in which this is accomplished is described below.Because the socket is formed at the peak of the flexible convexstructure discussed immediately above, the capturing of the ball in thesocket in this manner allows the ball to remain securely held forrotation and angulation even though the socket moves upward and downwardwith the flexing of the convex structure. The second baseplatepreferably includes an access hole that facilitates the capture of theball in the socket; in this embodiment family, it facilitates thecapture by accommodating placement of the deflection preventing element,so that the same can be applied to the ball after the ball is fittedinto the socket. Accordingly, the ball is maintained in the socket.

[0037] With regard to the second embodiment family, the convex structureis configured as a non-flexible element that is integral with the secondbaseplate, and has the socket of the ball and socket joint at its peak.More clearly stated, the devices of this second embodiment family do notfeature a flexible convex structure, and therefore (and also because ofthe manner in which the ball is captured in this second embodimentfamily, discussed immediately below) there is no need for the convexstructure to be a separate element from the second baseplate. (Bycontrast, in the first embodiment family, as discussed above, becausethe convex structure is flexible, it is a separate element than thesecond baseplate so that it is able to flex.) In the preferredembodiment, the convex structure has a frusto-conical shape. The mannerof capturing the ball in the socket in this second embodiment family isidentical to that of the first embodiment family.

[0038] With regard to the third embodiment family, the convex structureis configured as a non-flexible element that is integral with the secondbaseplate, and has the socket of the ball and socket joint in its peak,similar to the configuration of the convex structure in the secondembodiment family. In the preferred embodiment, the convex structure isshaped to have a curved taper. The manner of capturing the ball in thesocket of this third embodiment family is effected through the use of asolid ball. In order to permit the seating of the ball into the socket,the second baseplate has an access hole that facilitates the capture ofthe ball in the socket; in this embodiment family, the access holefacilitates the capture in that it has a diameter that accommodates thediameter of the ball, and leads to the interior of the peak, whichinterior is formed as a concavity having an opening diameter thataccommodates the diameter of the ball. (Preferably, the concavity has acurvature closely accommodating the contour of the ball, and theconcavity is either hemispherical or less-than-hemispherical so that theball can easily be placed into it.) Further, in order to maintain theball in the socket, an extension of the second baseplate (in the form ofa cap element) is provided for sealing the access hole in the secondbaseplate (or reducing the opening diameter of the access hole to a sizethat does not accommodate the diameter of the ball). The cap has aninterior face that preferably has a concavity (that has a curvature thatclosely accommodates the contour of the ball) to complete the socket.The peak of the convex structure also has a bore that accommodates apost to which the ball and the first baseplate are attached (one to eachend of the post), but does not accommodate the ball for passage throughthe bore. Accordingly, the ball is maintained in the socket.

[0039] With regard to the fourth embodiment family, the convex structureis configured as a non-flexible element that is a separate element from,but attached to, the second baseplate, and has the socket of the balland socket joint in its peak. In the preferred embodiment, the convexstructure is shaped to have a curved taper, similar to the configurationof the convex structure in the third embodiment family. The convexstructure in this fourth embodiment family is separate from the secondbaseplate during assembly of the device, for reasons related to themanner in which the ball is captured in the socket, but is attached tothe second baseplate by the time assembly is complete. The manner ofcapturing the ball in the socket of this fourth embodiment family iseffected through the use of a solid ball. The ball is first seatedagainst the central portion of the second baseplate (which centralportion preferably has a concavity that has a curvature that closelyaccommodates the contour of the ball), and then the convex structure isplaced over the ball to seat the ball in the socket formed in theinterior of the peak of the convex structure (the interior is preferablyformed as a concavity that is either hemispherical orless-than-hemispherical so that the ball can easily fit into it). Afterthe convex structure is placed over the ball, the convex structure isattached to the second baseplate to secure the ball in the socket. As inthe third embodiment family, the peak of the convex structure also has abore that accommodates a post to which the ball and the first baseplateare attached (one to each end of the post), but does not accommodate theball for passage through the bore. Accordingly, the ball is maintainedin the socket.

[0040] It should be understood that each of the features of each of theembodiments described herein, including, but not limited to, formationsand functions of convex structures, manners of capturing the ball in thesocket, types of spring elements, and manners of limiting rotation ofthe baseplates relative to one another, can be included in otherembodiments, individually or with one or more others of the features, inother permutations of the features, including permutations that are notspecifically described herein, without departing from the scope of thepresent invention.

[0041] Each of the embodiment families will now be summarized in greaterdetail.

[0042] In the first embodiment family, the ball and socket jointincludes a radially compressible ball (which, in some embodiments, isshaped as a semisphere), mounted to protrude from an inwardly facingsurface of a first baseplate, and a curvate socket formed at a peak of aflexible convex structure that is flexibly maintained near a secondbaseplate, within which curvate socket the ball is capturable for freerotation and angulation therein. Because the convex structure isflexible, it functions as a force restoring element (e.g., a spring)that provides axial cushioning to the device, by deflecting under acompressive load and restoring when the load is relieved. The flexibleconvex structure is preferably a belleville washer that has afrusto-conical shape. In general, a belleville washer is one of thestrongest configurations for a spring, and is highly suitable for use asa restoring force providing element in an artificial intervertebral discwhich must endure considerable cyclical loading in an active humanadult.

[0043] Belleville washers are washers that are generally bowed in theradial direction (e.g., have a hemispherical or semispherical shape) orsloped in the radial direction (e.g., have a frusto-conical shape).Bowed belleville washers have a radial convexity (i.e., the height ofthe washer is not linearly related to the radial distance, but may, forexample, be parabolic in shape). In a sloped belleville washer, theheight of the washer is linearly related to the radial distance. Ofcourse, other shape variations of belleville washers are suitable (suchas, but not limited to, belleville washers having non-uniform tapers orirregular overall shapes). The restoring force of a belleville washer isproportional to the elastic properties of the material. In addition, themagnitude of the compressive load support and the restoring forceprovided by the belleville washer may be modified by providing slotsand/or grooves in the washer. The belleville washer utilized as theforce restoring member in the illustrated embodiment is spirallyslotted, with the slots initiating on the periphery of the washer andextending along arcs that are generally radially inwardly directed adistance toward the center of the bowed disc, and has radially extendinggrooves that decrease in width and depth from the outside edge of thewasher toward the center of the washer. As a compressive load is appliedto a belleville washer, the forces are directed into a hoop stress thattends to radially expand the washer. This hoop stress is counterbalancedby the material strength of the washer, and the strain of the materialcauses a deflection in the height of the washer. Stated equivalently, abelleville washer responds to a compressive load by deflectingcompressively, but provides a restoring force that is proportional tothe elastic modulus of the material in a hoop stressed condition. Withslots and/or grooves formed in the washer, it expands and restoresitself far more elastically than a solid washer.

[0044] In order to permit the flexible convex structure to flex undercompressive loads applied to the device, it is a separate element fromthe second baseplate in the preferred embodiment. To provide room forthe flexible convex structure to expand in unrestricted fashion when itis compressed, while generally maintaining the flexible convex structurewithin a central area near the second baseplate, the wide end of theflexible convex structure is housed in the second baseplate through theuse of an extension of the second baseplate structure (in the form of ashield element that is secured to the second baseplate). Moreparticularly, a circular recess is provided on an inwardly facingsurface of the second baseplate, and the wide end of the flexible convexstructure is seated into the recess. The extension of the secondbaseplate (e.g., a shield) is placed over the flexible convex structureto cover enough of the convex structure to prevent it from escaping therecess, and then is attached to the second baseplate. As stated above,the shield is a separate element from the second baseplate to easemanufacturing, but once the device is assembled, the second baseplateand the shield are effectively one element. That is, the secondbaseplate and shield can be considered to be a single integral housingwithin which the separate flexible convex structure flexes, because butfor the sake of achieving desirable manufacturing efficiencies, thesecond baseplate and shield would be one piece.

[0045] More particularly with regard to the ball, the ball includes aseries of slots that render it radially compressible and expandable incorrespondence with a radial pressure. The ball further includes anaxial bore that accepts a deflection preventing element (e.g., a rivet).Prior to the insertion of the rivet, the ball can deflect radiallyinward because the slots will narrow under a radial pressure. Theinsertion of the rivet eliminates the capacity for this deflection.Therefore, the ball, before receiving the rivet, can be compressed topass into, and thereafter seat in, the curvate socket of the secondbaseplate. (The curvate socket has an opening diameter that accommodatespassage therethrough of the ball in a radially compressed state (but notin an uncompressed state), and a larger inner diameter that accommodatesthe ball in the uncompressed state.) Once the ball has been seated inthe curvate socket, the rivet can be inserted into the axial bore toensure that the ball remains held in the curvate socket. The secondbaseplate preferably includes an access hole that accommodates placementof the deflection preventing element, so that the same can be applied tothe ball after the ball is fitted into the socket.

[0046] The curvate socket defines a spherical contour that closelyaccommodates the ball for free rotation and angulation in itsuncompressed state. Therefore, when seated in the curvate socket, theball can rotate and angulate freely relative to the curvate socketthrough a range of angles, thus permitting the opposing baseplates torotate and angulate freely relative to one another through acorresponding range of angles equivalent to the fraction of normal humanspine rotation and angulation (to mimic normal disc rotation andangulation). The flexible convex structure serving as a force restoringdevice further provides spring-like performance with respect to axialcompressive loads, as well as long cycle life to mimic the axialbiomechanical performance of the normal human intervertebral disc.Because the ball is held within the curvate socket by a rivet in theaxial bore preventing radial compression of the protuberance, theartificial disc can withstand tension loading of the baseplates—theassembly does not come apart under normally experienced tension loads.Thus, in combination with the securing of the baseplates to the adjacentvertebral bones via the mesh domes, the disc assembly has an integritysimilar to the tension-bearing integrity of a healthy naturalintervertebral disc. Also because the ball is laterally captured in thecurvate socket, lateral translation of the baseplates relative to oneanother is prevented during rotation and angulation, similar to theperformance of healthy natural intervertebral disc. Because thebaseplates are made angulatable relative to one another by the ballbeing rotatably and angulatably coupled in the curvate socket, the discassembly provides a centroid of motion within the sphere defined by theball. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of the disc assembly remainscentrally located between the vertebral bodies, similar to the centroidof motion in a healthy natural intervertebral disc.

[0047] In the second embodiment family, the ball and socket jointincludes a radially compressible ball (or in some embodiments, asemisphere) mounted to protrude from an inwardly facing surface of afirst baseplate, and a curvate socket formed at a peak of a non-flexibleconvex structure that is integral with a second baseplate, within whichcurvate socket the ball is capturable for free rotation and angulationtherein. Because the convex structure is not flexible, it does not serveas a force restoring element (e.g., a spring). In the preferredembodiment, the convex structure has a frusto-conical shape. Theformation of the curvate socket, the configuration of the ball for usetherewith, and the manner in which the ball is captured in the socket,are preferably identical to that of the first embodiment family.Accordingly, the embodiments of the second embodiment family enjoy thecharacteristics and performance features of the embodiments of the firstembodiment family, except for the axial cushioning.

[0048] In the third embodiment family, the ball and socket jointincludes a solid ball (which, in some embodiments, is shaped as asemisphere) mounted to protrude from an inwardly facing surface of afirst baseplate, and a curvate socket formed in a peak of a non-flexibleconvex structure that is integral with a second baseplate, within whichcurvate socket the ball is capturable for free rotation and angulationtherein. In the preferred embodiment, the convex structure is shaped tohave a curved taper. With regard to the mounting of the ball, themounting includes a central post. A tail end of the post is (as a finalstep in the preferred assembly process) secured within a bore throughthe first baseplate, from the inwardly facing surface of the firstbaseplate to its outwardly facing surface. The ball is mounted at a headend of the post. The curvate socket defines a spherical contour, and isformed by opposing curvate pockets, one formed on a central portion ofan outwardly facing surface of the convex structure and one formed on aninwardly facing surface of an extension of the second baseplate (theextension being in the form of a cap element) that secures to theoutwardly facing surface of the second baseplate. When the cap issecured to the outwardly facing surface of the second baseplate, theopposing curvate pockets together form the curvate socket within whichthe ball freely rotates and angulates. Each curvate pocket issemispherically (preferably hemispherically) contoured to closelyaccommodate the spherical contour defined by the ball, so that the ballcan freely rotate in the socket about the longitudinal axis of the post,and can freely angulate in the socket about a centroid of motion locatedat the center of the sphere defined by the ball.

[0049] In order to enable the seating of the ball into the curvatesocket, the access hole in the second baseplate leading to the outwardlyfacing surface of the convex structure has a diameter that accommodatesthe diameter of the ball, and the curvate pocket on the outwardly facingsurface of the convex structure has an opening diameter thataccommodates the ball for seating in the pocket. Thus, the ball can beplaced through the access hole and into the curvate pocket. Thereafter,the cap is applied to seal the access hole in the second baseplate (orreduce the diameter of the access hole to a size that does notaccommodate the diameter of the ball). With regard to the attachment ofthe post to the first baseplate, the peak of the convex structure has acentral bore that accommodates the diameter of the post, but not thediameter of the ball. Therefore, as the ball is being placed into thecurvate pocket on the outwardly facing surface of the convex structure,the post fits through the bore, but the ball does not. After the cap issecured, the tail end of the post that is protruding from the bore issecured to the inwardly facing surface of the first baseplate by thetail end of the post preferably compression locking into a central borein the first baseplate.

[0050] In some embodiments of the third embodiment family, the capelement includes a spring member, preferably disposed on the curvatepocket or between the curvate pocket and the remaining structure of thecap element. The spring member can be attached to the curvate pocketand/or the remaining structure of the cap element, or the spring membercan be a separate element that is captured or maintained at least inpart between the curvate pocket and the remaining structure of the capelement (in which embodiment the cap element may include multiplepieces). While not limited to any particular structure, assembly, ormaterial, a spring member providing shock absorption preferably includesan elastomeric material, such as, for example, polyurethane or silicon,and a spring member providing shock dampening preferably includes aplastic material, such as, for example, polyethylene. It should beunderstood that metal springs may alternatively or additionally be used.Accordingly, in such embodiments, part or all of a compressive loadapplied to the baseplates will be borne by the spring member, which willdampen the load and/or absorb the load and preferably help return thebaseplates to their original uncompressed relative positions.

[0051] Accordingly, the baseplates are rotatable relative to one anotherbecause the ball rotates freely within the socket, and angulatablerelative to one another because the ball angulates freely within thesocket. (In the embodiments further having the spring member, thebaseplates are also axially compressible relative to one another.)Because the ball is held within the socket by the securing of the tailend of the post to the first baseplate and the securing of the cap tothe second baseplate, the artificial disc can withstand tension loadingof the baseplates—the assembly does not come apart under normallyexperienced tension loads. Thus, in combination with the securing of thebaseplates to the adjacent vertebral bones, the disc assembly has anintegrity similar to the tension-bearing integrity of a healthy naturalintervertebral disc. Also because the ball is laterally captured in thesocket, lateral translation of the baseplates relative to one another isprevented during rotation and angulation, similar to the performance ofhealthy natural intervertebral disc. Because the baseplates are madeangulatable relative to one another by the ball being rotatably andangulatably coupled in the socket, the disc assembly provides a centroidof motion within the ball. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of thedisc assembly remains centrally located between the vertebral bodies,similar to the centroid of motion in a healthy natural intervertebraldisc.

[0052] Some embodiments in the third embodiment family limit therotation (but preferably not the angulation) of the ball in the socket.Each embodiment accomplishes this in a different manner, but eachembodiment utilizes interference between a protrusion and a recess tolimit the rotation. In some embodiments, the protrusion is preferablyhemispherical and the recess preferably has a semicylindrical contourwithin which the protrusion fits. In other embodiments, the protrusionis preferably hemispherical, and the recess preferably has a curvatecontour that is not semicylindrical. (It should be understood that thedescribed formations of the recess and the protrusion are merelypreferred, and that alternate formations, curvate or otherwise, for eachare contemplated by the present invention; a particular shape orlocation of recess or a particular shape or location of protrusion isnot required; any shape can be used so long as the recess and protrusioninteract as desired.) The boundaries of the recess define the limits ofrotation of the ball within the socket, by allowing movement of theprotrusion relative to the recess as the ball rotates through a certainrange in the socket, but providing interference with the protrusion toprevent rotation of the ball beyond that range in the socket. At thesame time, the boundaries of the recess preferably do not limit theangulation of the ball within the socket, at least until the perimeterregions of the inwardly facing surfaces meet.

[0053] More particularly with respect to the manner in which theseembodiments limit rotation, in some embodiments the ball has aprotrusion that interferes with a recess adjacent the socket, the recessbeing formed by a curvate recess adjacent the curvate pocket on thecentral portion of the outwardly facing surface of the convex structureand a curvate recess adjacent the curvate pocket on the cap. In otherembodiments, the housing (e.g., the second baseplate/convex structureand/or the cap) has a protrusion (e.g., a hemispherical protrusion or ahemispherical head of a pin secured in a pin hole in the housing) thatinterferes with a recess on the ball. In still other embodiments, eachof the housing (e.g., the second baseplate/convex structure and/or thecap) and the ball has a recess, and a ball bearing fits within therecesses, so that the ball bearing functions as a protrusion thatinterferes with one or both of the recesses.

[0054] Therefore, when assembled, these embodiments of the thirdembodiment family enable angulation and limited rotation of thebaseplates relative to one another about a centroid of motion thatremains centrally located between the baseplates (at the center of thesphere defined by the ball), similar to the centroid of motion in ahealthy natural intervertebral disc that is limited in its rotation bysurrounding body structures. A benefit of limiting the relative rotationof the baseplates is that relative rotation beyond a certain range in ahealthy natural disc is neither needed nor desired, because, forexample, excess strain can be placed on the facet joints or ligamentsthereby. As described with the rotationally free embodiments of thesecond embodiment family, the construction also prevents translation andseparation of the baseplates relative to one another during rotation andangulation.

[0055] In the fourth embodiment family, the ball and socket jointincludes a solid ball (which, in some embodiments, is shaped as asemisphere) mounted to protrude from an inwardly facing surface of afirst baseplate, and a curvate socket formed in a peak of a non-flexibleconvex structure that is attached to an inwardly facing surface of asecond baseplate, within which curvate socket the ball is capturable forfree rotation and angulation therein. In the preferred embodiment, theconvex structure is shaped to have a curved taper. With regard to themounting of the ball, the mounting includes a central post that extendsfrom the inwardly facing surface of the first baseplate. The ball is (asa final step in the preferred assembly process) mounted at a head end ofthe post, by the head end preferably compression locking into a centralbore in the ball. The curvate socket defines a spherical contour, and isformed by opposing curvate pockets, one formed on an inwardly facingsurface of the second baseplate, and one formed as a curvate tapered lipof a central bore that passes through a central portion of the convexstructure from the convex structure's outwardly facing surface (havingthe curvate tapered lip) to its inwardly facing surface. When the convexstructure is secured to the inwardly facing surface of the secondbaseplate, the opposing curvate pockets together form the curvate socketwithin which the ball freely rotates and angulates. Each curvate pocketis semispherically (preferably hemispherically) contoured to closelyaccommodate the spherical contour defined by the ball, so that the ballcan freely rotate in each pocket about the longitudinal axis of thepost, and can freely angulate in each pocket about a centroid of motionlocated at the center of the sphere defined by the ball.

[0056] In order to enable the seating of the ball into the curvatesocket, the curvate pocket on the inwardly facing surface of the secondbaseplate has an opening diameter that accommodates the ball for seatingin the pocket. Thus, the ball can be placed into the curvate pocketbefore the convex structure is attached to the second baseplate.Thereafter, the convex structure is attached to the inwardly facingsurface of the second baseplate with the convex structure's curvatepocket (the curvate tapered lip of the convex structure's central bore)fitting against the ball to complete the ball and socket joint. Withregard to completing the assembly, the central bore of the convexstructure has a diameter that accommodates the diameter of the post, butnot the diameter of the ball. Therefore, after the ball is secured inthe curvate socket, the post fits through the bore so that the head endof the post can be compression locked to the ball, but the ball isprevented from escaping the socket through the central bore of theconvex structure.

[0057] In some embodiments of the fourth embodiment family, the secondbaseplate includes a spring member, preferably disposed on the curvatepocket or between the curvate pocket and the remaining structure of thesecond baseplate. The spring member can be attached to the curvatepocket and/or the remaining structure of the second baseplate, or thespring member can be a separate element that is captured or maintainedat least in part between the curvate pocket and the remaining structureof the second baseplate (in which embodiment the second baseplate mayinclude multiple pieces). While not limited to any particular structure,assembly, or material, a spring member providing shock absorptionpreferably includes an elastomeric material, such as, for example,polyurethane or silicon, and a spring member providing shock dampeningpreferably includes a plastic material, such as, for example,polyethylene. It should be understood that metal springs mayalternatively or additionally be used. Accordingly, in such embodiments,part or all of a compressive load applied to the baseplates will beborne by the spring member, which will dampen the load and/or absorb theload and preferably help return the baseplates to their originaluncompressed relative positions.

[0058] Accordingly, the baseplates are rotatable relative to one anotherbecause the ball rotates freely within the socket, and angulatablerelative to one another because the ball angulates freely within thesocket. (In the embodiments further having the spring member, thebaseplates are also axially compressible relative to one another.)Because the ball is held within the socket by the securing of thecentral post of the first baseplate to the ball and the securing of theconvex structure to the second baseplate, the artificial disc canwithstand tension loading of the baseplates—the assembly does not comeapart under normally experienced tension loads. Thus, in combinationwith the securing of the baseplates to the adjacent vertebral bones, thedisc assembly has an integrity similar to the tension-bearing integrityof a healthy natural intervertebral disc. Also because the ball islaterally captured in the socket, lateral translation of the baseplatesrelative to one another is prevented during rotation and angulation,similar to the performance of healthy natural intervertebral disc.Because the baseplates are made angulatable relative to one another bythe ball being rotatably and angulatably coupled in the socket, the discassembly provides a centroid of motion within the sphere defined by theball. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of the disc assembly remainscentrally located between the vertebral bodies, similar to the centroidof motion in a healthy natural intervertebral disc.

[0059] Some embodiments in the fourth embodiment family limit therotation (but preferably not the angulation) of the ball in the socketformed by the curvate taper of the convex structure and thehemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of the second baseplate.Each embodiment accomplishes this in a different manner, but eachembodiment utilizes interference between a protrusion and a recess tolimit the rotation, similar to the manner in which such interference isutilized in the third embodiment family. In some embodiments, theprotrusion is preferably hemispherical, and the recess preferably has asemicylindrical contour within which the protrusion fits. In otherembodiments, the protrusion is preferably hemispherical, and the recesspreferably has a curvate contour that is not semicylindrical. (It shouldbe understood that the described formations of the recess and theprotrusion are merely preferred, and that alternate formations, curvateor otherwise, for each are contemplated by the present invention; aparticular shape or location of recess or a particular shape or locationof protrusion is not required; any shape can be used so long as therecess and protrusion interact as desired.) The boundaries of the recessdefine the limits of rotation of the ball within the socket, by allowingmovement of the protrusion relative to the recess as the ball rotatesthrough a certain range in the socket, but providing interference withthe protrusion to prevent rotation of the ball beyond that range in thesocket. At the same time, the boundaries of the recess preferably do notlimit the angulation of the ball within the socket, at least until theperimeter regions of the inwardly facing surface of the convex structureand the inwardly facing surface of the first baseplate meet.

[0060] More particularly with respect to the manner in which theseembodiments limit rotation, in some embodiments the ball has aprotrusion that interferes with a recess adjacent the socket, the recessbeing formed by a curvate recess adjacent the curvate pocket on thesecond baseplate and a curvate recess adjacent the curvate taper on theconvex structure. In other embodiments, the housing (e.g., the secondbaseplate and/or the convex structure) has a protrusion (e.g., ahemispherical protrusion or a hemispherical head of a pin secured in apin hole in the housing) that interferes with a recess on the ball. Instill other embodiments, each of the housing (e.g., the second baseplateand/or the convex structure) and the ball has a recess, and a ballbearing fits within the recesses, so that the ball bearing functions asa protrusion that interferes with one or both of the recesses.

[0061] Therefore, when assembled, these embodiments of the fourthembodiment family enable angulation and limited rotation of thebaseplates relative to one another about a centroid of motion thatremains centrally located between the baseplates (at the center of thesphere defined by the ball), similar to the centroid of motion in ahealthy natural intervertebral disc that is limited in its rotation bysurrounding body structures. A benefit of limiting the relative rotationof the baseplates is that relative rotation beyond a certain range in ahealthy natural disc is neither needed nor desired, because, forexample, excess strain can be placed on the facet joints or ligamentsthereby. As described with the rotationally free embodiments of thethird embodiment family, the construction also prevents translation andseparation of the baseplates relative to one another during rotation andangulation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062]FIGS. 1a-c show top (FIG. 1a), side cutaway (FIG. 1b) and bottom(FIG. 1c) views of a first baseplate of a first embodiment family of thepresent invention, the first baseplate having an inwardly directedradially compressible ball.

[0063]FIGS. 1d-f show top (FIG. 1d), side cutaway (FIG. 1e) and bottom(FIG. 1f) views of a second baseplate of the first embodiment family,the second baseplate having a circular recess within which seats aflexible convex structure.

[0064]FIGS. 1g-h show side cutaway (FIG. 1g) and top perspective (FIG.1h) views of a flexible convex structure of the first embodiment family,the flexible convex structure having spiral slots and radially extendinggrooves.

[0065]FIGS. 1i-j show exploded (FIG. 1i) and assembled (FIG. 1j) viewsof a preferred embodiment of the first embodiment family.

[0066]FIGS. 2a-c show top (FIG. 2a), side cutaway (FIG. 2b) and bottom(FIG. 2c) views of a first baseplate of a second embodiment family ofthe present invention, the first baseplate having an inwardly directedradially compressible ball.

[0067]FIGS. 2d-f show top (FIG. 2d), side cutaway (FIG. 2e) and bottom(FIG. 2f) views of a second baseplate of the second embodiment family,the second baseplate having a curvate socket within which the ball iscapturable for free rotation and angulation therein.

[0068]FIGS. 2g-h show exploded (FIG. 2g) and assembled (FIG. 2h) viewsof a preferred embodiment of the second embodiment family.

[0069]FIGS. 3a-e show top (FIG. 3a), side (FIG. 3b), side cutaway (FIG.3c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3d) and perspective (FIG. 3e) views of afirst baseplate of a third embodiment family of the present invention.

[0070]FIGS. 3f-j show top (FIG. 3f), side (FIG. 3g), side cutaway (FIG.3h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3i) and perspective (FIG. 3j) views of afirst type of a second baseplate of the third embodiment family, thefirst type of second baseplate having a convex structure of the thirdembodiment family integrated therewith.

[0071]FIGS. 3k-o show top (FIG. 3k), side (FIG. 3l), side cutaway (FIG.3m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3n) and perspective (FIG. 3o) views of afirst type of a ball of the third embodiment family.

[0072]FIGS. 3p-t show top (FIG. 3p), side (FIG. 3q), side cutaway (FIG.3r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3s) and perspective (FIG. 3t) views of afirst type of a cap of the third embodiment family.

[0073]FIGS. 3u-y show top (FIG. 3u), side (FIG. 3v), side cutaway (FIG.3w), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3x) and perspective (FIG. 3y) views of anassembled first preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family.

[0074]FIGS. 4a-e show top (FIG. 4a), side (FIG. 4b), side cutaway (FIG.4c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4d) and perspective (FIG. 4e) views of asecond type of the second baseplate of the third embodiment family, thesecond type of the second baseplate having the convex structureintegrated therewith and also having a curvate recess.

[0075]FIGS. 4f-j show top (FIG. 4f), side (FIG. 4g), side cutaway (FIG.4h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4i) and perspective (FIG. 4j) views of asecond type of the ball of the third embodiment family, the second typeof the ball having a protrusion.

[0076]FIGS. 4k-o show top (FIG. 4k), side (FIG. 4l), side cutaway (FIG.4m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4n) and perspective (FIG. 4o) views of asecond type of a cap of the third embodiment family, the second type ofcap having a curvate recess.

[0077]FIGS. 4p-t show top (FIG. 4p), side (FIG. 4q), side cutaway (FIG.4r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4s) and perspective (FIG. 4t) views of anassembled second preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family.

[0078]FIGS. 5a-e show top (FIG. 5a), side (FIG. 5b), side cutaway (FIG.5c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 5d) and perspective (FIG. 5e) views of athird type of the second baseplate of the third embodiment family, thethird type of the second baseplate having the convex structureintegrated therewith and also having a protrusion.

[0079]FIGS. 5f-j show top (FIG. 5f), side (FIG. 5g), side cutaway (FIG.5h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 5i) and perspective (FIG. 5j) views of athird type of the ball of the third embodiment family, the third type ofthe ball having a curvate recess.

[0080]FIGS. 5k-o show top (FIG. 5k), side (FIG. 5l), side cutaway (FIG.5m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 5n) and perspective (FIG. 5o) views of anassembled third preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family.

[0081]FIGS. 6a-e show top (FIG. 6a), side (FIG. 6b), side cutaway (FIG.6c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 6d) and perspective (FIG. 6e) views of afourth type of the second baseplate of the third embodiment family, thefourth type of the second baseplate having the convex structureintegrated therewith and also having a pin through hole for housing apin.

[0082]FIGS. 6f-j show top (FIG. 6f), side (FIG. 6g), side cutaway (FIG.6h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 6i) and perspective (FIG. 6j) views of anassembled fourth preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family.

[0083]FIGS. 7a-e show top (FIG. 7a), side (FIG. 7b), side cutaway (FIG.7c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 7d) and perspective (FIG. 7e) views of afifth type of the second baseplate of the third embodiment family, thefifth type of the second baseplate having the convex structureintegrated therewith and also having a recess.

[0084]FIGS. 7f-j show top (FIG. 7f), side (FIG. 7g), side cutaway (FIG.7h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 7i) and perspective (FIG. 7j) views of anassembled fifth preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family.

[0085]FIGS. 8a-e show top (FIG. 8a), side (FIG. 8b), side cutaway (FIG.8c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8d) and perspective (FIG. 8e) views of afirst baseplate of a fourth embodiment family of the present invention.

[0086]FIGS. 8f-j show top (FIG. 8f), side (FIG. 8g), side cutaway (FIG.8h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8i) and perspective (FIG. 8j) views of afirst type of second baseplate of the fourth embodiment family, thefirst type of the second baseplate having a central curvate pocket ofthe fourth embodiment family.

[0087]FIGS. 8k-o show top (FIG. 8k), side (FIG. 8l), side cutaway (FIG.8m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8n) and perspective (FIG. 8o) views of afirst type of a ball of the fourth embodiment family.

[0088]FIGS. 8p-t show top (FIG. 8p), side (FIG. 8q), side cutaway (FIG.8r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8s) and perspective (FIG. 8t) views of afirst type of a convex structure of the fourth embodiment family.

[0089]FIGS. 8u-y show top (FIG. 8u), side (FIG. 8v), side cutaway (FIG.8w), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8x) and perspective (FIG. 8y) views of anassembled first preferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment family.

[0090]FIGS. 9a-e show top (FIG. 9a), side (FIG. 9b), side cutaway (FIG.9c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9d) and perspective (FIG. 9e) views of asecond type of second baseplate of the fourth embodiment family, thesecond type of the second baseplate having the central curvate pocketand also having a curvate recess.

[0091]FIGS. 9f-j show top (FIG. 9f), side (FIG. 9g), side cutaway (FIG.9h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9i) and perspective (FIG. 9j) views of asecond type of the ball of the fourth embodiment family, the second typeof the ball having a protrusion.

[0092]FIGS. 9k-o show top (FIG. 9k), side (FIG. 9l), side cutaway (FIG.9m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9n) and perspective (FIG. 9o) views of asecond type of the convex structure of the fourth embodiment family, thesecond type of the convex structure having a curvate recess.

[0093]FIGS. 9p-t show top (FIG. 9p), side (FIG. 9q), side cutaway (FIG.9r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9s) and perspective (FIG. 9t) views of anassembled second preferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment family.

[0094]FIGS. 10a-e show top (FIG. 10a), side (FIG. 10b), side cutaway(FIG. 10c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10d) and perspective (FIG. 10e)views of a third type of second baseplate of the fourth embodimentfamily, the third type of the second baseplate having the centralcurvate pocket and also having a recess on a circumferential wall aroundthe curvate pocket.

[0095]FIGS. 10f-j show top (FIG. 10f), side (FIG. 10g), side cutaway(FIG. 10h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10i) and perspective (FIG. 10j)views of a third type of the ball of the fourth embodiment family, thethird type of the ball having a curvate recess.

[0096]FIGS. 10k-o show top (FIG. 10k), side (FIG. 10l), side cutaway(FIG. 10m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10n) and perspective (FIG. 10o)views of a third type of the convex structure of the fourth embodimentfamily, the third type of the convex structure having a protrusion.

[0097]FIGS. 10p-t show top (FIG. 10p), side (FIG. 10q), side cutaway(FIG. 10r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10s) and perspective (FIG. 10t)views of an assembled third preferred embodiment of the fourthembodiment family.

[0098]FIGS. 11a-e show top (FIG. 11a), side (FIG. 11b), side cutaway(FIG. 11c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 11d) and perspective (FIG. 11e)views of a fourth type of the convex structure of the fourth embodimentfamily, the fourth type of the convex structure having a pin throughhole for housing a pin.

[0099]FIGS. 11f-j show top (FIG. 11f), side (FIG. 11g), side cutaway(FIG. 11h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 11i) and perspective (FIG. 11j)views of an assembled fourth preferred embodiment of the fourthembodiment family.

[0100]FIGS. 12a-e show top (FIG. 12a), side (FIG. 12b), side cutaway(FIG. 12c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 12d) and perspective (FIG. 12e)views of a fifth type of the convex structure of the fourth embodimentfamily, the fifth type of the convex structure having a recess adjacenta curvate taper.

[0101]FIGS. 12f-j show top (FIG. 12f), side (FIG. 12g), side cutaway(FIG. 12h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 12i) and perspective (FIG. 12j)views of fourth type of ball of the fourth embodiment family, the fourthtype of ball having a curvate recess.

[0102]FIGS. 12k-o show top (FIG. 12k), side (FIG. 12l), side cutaway(FIG. 12m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 12n) and perspective (FIG. 12o)views of an assembled fifth preferred embodiment of the fourthembodiment family.

[0103]FIG. 13 shows a side perspective view of a prior art interbodyfusion device.

[0104]FIG. 14 shows a front view of the anterior portion of thelumbo-sacral region of a human spine, into which a pair of interbodyfusion devices of FIG. 13 have been implanted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0105] While the invention will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which particular embodimentsand methods of implantation are shown, it is to be understood at theoutset that persons skilled in the art may modify the invention hereindescribed while achieving the functions and results of the invention.Accordingly, the descriptions that follow are to be understood asillustrative and exemplary of specific structures, aspects and featureswithin the broad scope of the invention and not as limiting of suchbroad scope. Like numbers refer to similar features of like elementsthroughout.

[0106] A preferred embodiment of a first embodiment family of thepresent invention will now be described.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 1a-c, a first baseplate 10 of a firstembodiment family of the present invention is shown in top (FIG. 1a),side cutaway (FIG. 1b) and bottom (FIG. 1c) views. Also referring toFIGS. 1d-f, a second baseplate 30 of the first embodiment family isshown in top (FIG. 1d), side cutaway (FIG. 1e) and bottom (FIG. 1f)views.

[0108] More specifically, each baseplate 10,30 has an outwardly facingsurface 12,32. Because the artificial disc of the invention is to bepositioned between the facing surfaces of adjacent vertebral bodies, thetwo baseplates 10,30 used in the artificial disc are disposed such thatthe outwardly facing surfaces 12,32 face away from one another (as bestseen in exploded view in FIG. 1g and in assembly view in FIG. 1h). Thetwo baseplates 10,30 are to mate with the vertebral bodies so as to notrotate relative thereto, but rather to permit the spinal segments tobend relative to one another in manners that mimic the natural motion ofthe spinal segment. This motion is permitted by the performance of aball and socket joint disposed between the secured baseplates 10,30. Themating of the baseplates 10,30 to the vertebral bodies and theconstruction of the ball and socket joint are described below.

[0109] More particularly, each baseplate 10,30 is a flat plate(preferably made of a metal such as, for example, cobalt-chromium ortitanium) having an overall shape that conforms to the overall shape ofthe respective endplate of the vertebral body with which it is to mate.Further, each baseplate 10,30 comprises a vertebral body contact element(e.g., a convex mesh 14,34, preferably oval in shape) that is attachedto the outwardly facing surface 12,32 of the baseplate 10,30 to providea vertebral body contact surface. The mesh 14,34 is secured at itsperimeter to the outwardly facing surface 12,32 of the baseplate 10,30.The mesh 14,34 is domed in its initial undeflected conformation, butdeflects as necessary during insertion of the artificial disc betweenvertebral bodies, and, once the artificial disc is seated between thevertebral bodies, deforms as necessary under anatomical loads to reshapeitself to the concave surface of the vertebral endplate. This affordsthe baseplate 10,30 having the mesh 14,34 substantially superiorgripping and holding strength upon initial implantation as compared withother artificial disc products. The mesh 14,34 further provides anosteoconductive surface through which the bone may ultimately grow. Themesh 14,34 is preferably comprised of titanium, but can also be formedfrom other metals and/or non-metals without departing from the scope ofthe invention.

[0110] Each baseplate 10,30 further comprises at least a lateral ring16,36 that is osteoconductive, which may be, for example, a sprayeddeposition layer, or an adhesive applied beaded metal layer, or anothersuitable porous coating. This porous ring 16,36 permits the long-termingrowth of vertebral bone into the baseplate 10,30, thus permanentlysecuring the prosthesis within the intervertebral space. It shall beunderstood that this porous layer 16,36 may extend beneath the domedmesh 14,34 as well, but is more importantly applied to the lateral rimof the outwardly facing surface 12,32 of the baseplate 10,30 that seatsdirectly against the vertebral body.

[0111] As summarized above, each of the embodiments in the fourembodiment families discussed herein share the same basic elements, someof which retain identical functionality and configuration across theembodiments, and some of which gain or lose functionality and/orconfiguration across the embodiments to accommodate mechanical and/ormanufacturing necessities. More specifically, each of the embodimentshas the two baseplates joined to one another by a ball and socket jointthat is established centrally between the baseplates. Each ball andsocket joint is established by a socket being formed at the peak (or, insome embodiments, in the peak) of a convex structure extending from thesecond baseplate, and by a ball being secured to the first baseplate andbeing captured in the socket so that when the joint is placed under atension or compression force, the ball remains rotatably and angulatablysecure in the socket. However, the convex structure is configureddifferently in each of the embodiment families, and the manner in whichthe ball is captured in the socket is different in each of theembodiment families. Each of these two variations (the configuration ofthe convex structure and the manner of capturing the ball in the socket)among the embodiments families will be understood further in light ofthe detailed descriptions hereinbelow. It should be noted that althougheach of the embodiment families uses a preferred shape for the convexstructure (e.g., in the first and second embodiment families, thepreferred shape is frusto-conical, and in the third and fourthembodiment families, the preferred shape is a shape having a curvedtaper), the convex structure in each of the embodiment families is notlimited to a particular shape. For example, shapes including, but notlimited to, frusto-conical, hemispherical or semispherical shapes,shapes having sloped tapers or curved tapers, or shapes havingnon-uniform, irregular, or dimensionally varying tapers or contours,would also be suitable in any of the embodiment families.

[0112] In this regard, in this first embodiment family, the convexstructure is configured as a flexible element and functions as a springelement that provides axial cushioning to the device. The convexstructure has the socket of the ball and socket joint at its peak. Inorder to permit the flexible convex structure to flex under compressiveloads applied to the device, it is a separate element from the secondbaseplate. In the preferred embodiment, the flexible convex structure isa belleville washer that has a frusto-conical shape. Other flexibleconvex structures are also contemplated as being suitable, such as, forexample, convex structures that flex because of the resilience of thematerial from which they are made, because of the shape into which theyare formed, and/or or because of the mechanical interaction betweensub-elements of an assembly forming the convex structure. Although theconvex structure is a separate element from the second baseplate in thisembodiment family (so that it is able to flex), it is preferablymaintained near the second baseplate so that the device does notseparate in tension. Therefore, an extension of the second baseplate isprovided (in the form of a shield element) to cover enough of the convexstructure to so maintain it. Stated alternatively, the shield is aseparate element from the second baseplate to ease manufacturing (duringassembly, the flexible convex structure is first placed against thesecond baseplate, and then the shield is placed over the convexstructure and secured to the second baseplate so that the convexstructure is maintained between the second baseplate and the shield),but once the device is assembled, the second baseplate and the shieldare effectively one element. That is, the second baseplate and shieldcan be considered to be a single integral housing within which theseparate flexible convex structure flexes, because but for the sake ofachieving desirable manufacturing efficiencies, the second baseplate andshield would be one piece.

[0113] Also in this regard, in the first embodiment family, the mannerof capturing the ball in the socket is effected by the ball beingselectively radially compressible. That is, the ball is radiallycompressed to fit into the socket and thereafter receives a deflectionpreventing element to prevent subsequent radial compression, so that theball remains captured in the socket. A more detailed description of thepreferred manner in which this is accomplished is described below.Because the socket is formed at the peak of the flexible convexstructure discussed immediately above, the capturing of the ball in thesocket in this manner allows the ball to remain securely held forrotation and angulation even though the socket moves upward and downwardwith the flexing of the convex structure. The second baseplatepreferably includes an access hole that accommodates placement of thedeflection preventing element, so that the same can be applied to theball after the ball is fitted into the socket. Accordingly, the ball ismaintained in the socket.

[0114] More specifically, in this preferred embodiment of the firstembodiment family, with regard to joining the two baseplates 10,30 witha ball and socket joint, each of the baseplates 10,30 comprises featuresthat, in conjunction with other components described below, form theball and socket joint. More specifically, the first baseplate 10includes an inwardly facing surface 18 that includes a perimeter region20 and a ball 22 mounted to protrude from the inwardly facing surface18. The ball 22 preferably has a semispherical shape defining aspherical contour. The ball 22 includes a series of slots 24 that renderthe ball 22 radially compressible and expandable in correspondence witha radial pressure (or a radial component of a pressure applied theretoand released therefrom). The ball 22 further includes an axial bore 26that accepts a deflection preventing element (e.g., rivet, plug, dowel,or screw; a rivet 28 is used herein as an example) (shown in FIGS.1i-j). (Alternatively, the axial bore can be threaded to accept ascrew.) Prior to the insertion of the rivet 28, the ball 22 can deflectradially inward because the slots 24 will narrow under a radialpressure. The insertion of the rivet 28 eliminates the capacity for thisdeflection. Therefore, the ball 22, before receiving the rivet 28, canbe compressed to pass into, and thereafter seat in, a central curvatesocket of a convex structure (described below). Once the ball 22 hasbeen seated in the curvate socket, the rivet 28 can be inserted into theaxial bore 26 to ensure that the ball 22 remains held in the curvatesocket. As described below, an access hole is preferably provided in thesecond baseplate 30 so that the interior of the device may be readilyaccessed for inserting the rivet 28 into the axial bore 26, or for otherpurposes.

[0115] The second baseplate 30 includes an inwardly facing surface 38that includes a perimeter region 40 and a central circular recess 42within which the wide end of the convex structure resides, and a pair ofholes 44 through which rivets 46 (shown in FIGS. 1g-h) may be providedfor securing a shield element 48 that is placed over the convexstructure, which shield 48 thus serves as an extension of the secondbaseplate 30 (the shield 48 is more fully set forth below with and shownon FIGS. 1i-j).

[0116] Referring now to FIGS. 1g-h, the convex structure 31 that residesin the circular recess 42 is shown in side cutaway (FIG. 1g) and topperspective (FIG. 1h) views. In this embodiment, the convex structure 31is frusto-conical and is flexible. Because the convex structure 31 isflexible, it functions as a force restoring element (e.g., a spring)that provides axial cushioning to the device, by deflecting under acompressive load and restoring when the load is relieved. The flexibleconvex structure 31 is preferably, as shown, a belleville washer thathas a frusto-conical shape. The belleville washer 31 preferably, asshown, has spiral slots and radially extending grooves. The restoringforce of the belleville washer 31 is proportional to the elasticproperties of the material or materials from which it is made. It shouldbe understood that belleville washers having the configuration shown canbe used with the present invention, but that belleville washers havingother conformations, that is, without or without slots and/or grooves,and/or with other groove and slots configurations, including the same ordifferent numbers of grooves and/or slots, can also be used with and areencompassed by the present invention.

[0117] The belleville washer 31 comprises a series of spiral slots 33formed therein. The slots 33 extend from the outer edge of thebelleville washer 31, inward along arcs generally directed toward thecenter of the element. The slots 33 do not extend fully to the center ofthe element. Preferably, the slots 33 extend anywhere from a quarter tothree quarters of the overall radius of the washer 31, depending uponthe requirements of the patient, and the anatomical requirements of thedevice.

[0118] The belleville washer 31 further comprises a series of grooves 35formed therein. The grooves 35 extend radially from the outer edge ofthe belleville washer 31 toward the center of the element. Preferably,the width and depth of each groove 35 decreases along the length of thegroove 35 from the outer edge of the washer 31 toward the center of thewasher 31, such that the center of the washer 31 is flat, while theouter edge of the washer 31 has grooves of a maximum groove depth. Itshould be understood that in other embodiments, one or both of the depthand the width of each groove can be (1) increasing along the length ofthe groove from the outer edge of the washer toward the center of thewasher, (2) uniform along the length of the groove from the outer edgeof the washer toward the center of the washer, or (3) varied along thelength of each groove from the outer edge of the washer toward thecenter of the washer, either randomly or according to a pattern.Moreover, in other embodiments, it can be the case that each groove isnot formed similarly to one or more other grooves, but rather one ormore grooves are formed in any of the above-mentioned fashions, whileone or more other grooves are formed in another of the above-mentionedfashions or other fashions. It should be clear that any groove patterncan be implemented without departing from the scope of the presentinvention, including, but not limited to, at least one radially spacedconcentric groove, including, but not limited to, at least one suchgroove having at least one dimension that varies along the length of thegroove. Belleville washers having circumferential extents that radiallyvary in at least one dimension, are also contemplated by the presentinvention.

[0119] As a compressive load is applied to the belleville washer 31, theforces are directed into a hoop stress which tends to radially expandthe washer 31. This hoop stress is counterbalanced by the materialstrength of the washer 31, and the force necessary to widen the spiralslots 33 and the radial grooves 35 along with the strain of the materialcauses a deflection in the height of the washer 31. Stated equivalently,the belleville washer 31 responds to a compressive load by deflectingcompressively; the spiral slots and/or radial grooves cause the washerto further respond to the load by spreading as the slots and/or thegrooves in the washer expand under the load. The spring, therefore,provides a restoring force which is proportional to the elastic modulusof the material in a hoop stressed condition.

[0120] With regard to the above discussion regarding the curvate socketthat receives the ball 22 of the first baseplate 10, the curvate socketis formed at the peak of the convex structure 31. The curvate socket 37is provided inasmuch as the central opening of the belleville washer 31is enlarged. This central opening includes a curvate volume 37 forreceiving therein the ball 22 of the first baseplate 10. Moreparticularly, the curvate volume 37 has a substantially constant radiusof curvature that is also substantially equivalent to the radius of theball 22. In this embodiment, the spiral slots 33 of the washer 31 do notextend all the way to the central opening, and approach the opening onlyas far as the material strength of the washer 31 can handle withoutplastically deforming under the expected anatomical loading. Further inthis embodiment, the depth of each groove 35 of the washer 31 decreasesalong the length of the groove 35 from the outer edge of the washer 31toward the center of the washer 31, such that the center of the washer31 is flat, while the outer edge of the washer 31 has grooves of amaximum groove depth. Therefore, the central opening can be formed fromflat edges. It should be understood that this is not required, butrather is preferred for this embodiment.

[0121] The curvate socket 37 has an opening diameter that accommodatespassage therethrough of the ball 22 in a radially compressed state (butnot in an uncompressed state), and a larger inner diameter thataccommodates the ball 22 in the uncompressed state. Therefore, the ball22 can be radially compressed to pass into the curvate socket 37 underforce, and then will radially expand to the uncompressed state once inthe curvate socket 37. Once the rivet 28 is then secured into the axialbore 26, the rivet 28 prevents the ball 22 from radially compressing,and therefore the ball 22 cannot back out through the opening. An accesshole 39 in the second baseplate 30 below the curvate socket 37 has adiameter that accommodates the diameter of the rivet 28 and therebyprovides easy access to insert the rivet 28 in the axial bore 26 afterthe ball 22 has been seated in the curvate socket 37. To prevent theball 22 from escaping the curvate socket 37 through the second baseplate30, the diameter of the access hole 39 is smaller than the innerdiameter of the curvate socket 37.

[0122] The curvate socket 37 defines a spherical contour that closelyaccommodates the ball 22 for free rotation and angulation in itsuncompressed state. Therefore, when seated in the curvate socket 37, theball 22 can rotate and angulate freely relative to the curvate socket 37through a range of angles, thus permitting the opposing baseplates 10,30to rotate and angulate freely relative to one another through acorresponding range of angles equivalent to the fraction of normal humanspine rotation and angulation (to mimic normal disc rotation andangulation). Further preferably, the perimeter regions 20,40 havecorresponding contours, so that the meeting of the perimeter regions20,40 as a result of the angulation of the baseplates 10,30 reduces anysurface wearing.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 1i-j, exploded (FIG. 1i) and assembled (FIG.1i) views of the preferred embodiment of the first embodiment family areshown. Included in these views are the shield 48 and the correspondingrivets 46. More particularly, assembly of the disc is preferably asfollows. The first and second baseplates 10,30 are disposed so thattheir outwardly facing surfaces 12,32 face away from one another andtheir inwardly facing surfaces 18,38 are directed toward one another.The convex structure 31 is then positioned with its wide end in thecircular recess 42 of the second baseplate, so that the curvate socket37 of the convex structure 31 is aligned with the ball 22 of the firstbaseplate 10. Then, the shield 48 is secured over the belleville washer31 (the shield 48 is preferably frusto-conical to follow the shape ofthe belleville washer 31, although other shield shapes are suitable andcontemplated by the present invention) by passing the central hole 41 ofthe shield 48 over the curvate socket 37 and applying the rivets 46through rivet holes 43 in the shield 48 and into the rivet holes 44 inthe second baseplate 30. Then, the ball 22 is pressed into the curvatesocket 37 under a force sufficient to narrow the slots 24 and therebyradially compress the ball 22 until the ball 22 fits through and passesthrough the opening of the curvate socket 37. Once the ball 22 is insidethe curvate socket 37, the ball 22 will radially expand as the slots 24widen until it has returned to its uncompressed state and the sphericalcontour defined by the ball 22 is closely accommodated by the sphericalcontour defined by the curvate socket 37 and the ball 22 can rotate andangulate freely relative to the curvate socket 37. Thereafter, the rivet28 is passed through the access hole 39 and pressed into the axial bore26 of the ball 22 to prevent any subsequent radially compression of theball 22 and therefore any escape from the curvate socket 37 thereby.Because the diameter of the circular recess 42 is greater than thediameter of the wide end of the belleville washer 31, compressiveloading of the device (and therefore the belleville washer) can resultin an unrestrained radial deflection of the belleville washer 31. Thespiral slots 33 and radial grooves 35 of the belleville washer 31enhance this deflection. When the load is removed, the belleville washer31 springs back to its original shape.

[0124] Accordingly, when the device of the preferred embodiment of thefirst embodiment family is assembled, the baseplates 10,30 are rotatablerelative to one another because the ball 22 rotates freely within thecurvate socket 37, and angulatable relative to one another because theball 22 angulates freely within the socket 37. Because the convexstructure 31 is flexible (and is housed in the second baseplate 30 in amanner that permits it to flex), the baseplates 10,30 are also axiallycompressible relative to one another. Because the ball 22 is held withinthe curvate socket 37 by a rivet 28 in the axial bore 26 preventingradial compression of the ball 22, the artificial disc can withstandtension loading of the baseplates 10,30. More particularly, when atension load is applied to the baseplates 10,30, the ball 22 in thecurvate socket 37 seeks to radially compress to fit through the openingof the curvate socket 37. However, the rivet 28 in the axial bore 26 ofthe ball 22 prevents the radial compression, thereby preventing the ball22 from exiting the curvate socket 37. Therefore, the assembly does notcome apart under normally experienced tension loads. This ensures thatno individual parts of the assembly will pop out or slip out frombetween the vertebral bodies when, e.g., the patient stretches or hangswhile exercising or performing other activities. Thus, in combinationwith the securing of the baseplates 10,30 to the adjacent vertebralbones via the mesh domes 14,34, the disc assembly has an integritysimilar to the tension-bearing integrity of a healthy naturalintervertebral disc. Also, because the ball 22 is laterally captured inthe curvate socket 37, lateral translation of the baseplates 10,30relative to one another is prevented during rotation and angulation,similar to the performance of healthy natural intervertebral disc.Because the baseplates 10,30 are made angulatable relative to oneanother by the ball 22 being rotatably and angulatably coupled in thecurvate socket 37, the disc assembly provides a centroid of motionwithin the ball 22. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of the discassembly remains centrally located between the vertebral bodies, similarto the centroid of motion in a healthy natural intervertebral disc.

[0125] A preferred embodiment of a second embodiment family of thepresent invention will now be described.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 2a-c, a first baseplate 50 of a secondembodiment family of the present invention is shown in top (FIG. 2a),side cutaway (FIG. 2b) and bottom (FIG. 2c) views. Also referring toFIGS. 2d-f, a second baseplate 70 of the second embodiment family isshown in top (FIG. 2d), side cutaway (FIG. 2e) and bottom (FIG. 2f)views.

[0127] With regard to the configuration of the convex structure in thissecond embodiment family, and the manner in which the ball is capturedin the socket in this second embodiment family, the convex structure isconfigured as a non-flexible element that is integral with the secondbaseplate, and has the socket of the ball and socket joint at its peak.More clearly stated, the devices of this second embodiment family do notfeature a flexible convex structure, and therefore (and also because ofthe manner in which the ball is captured in this second embodimentfamily, discussed immediately below) there is no need for the convexstructure to be a separate element from the second baseplate. (Bycontrast, in the first embodiment family, as discussed above, becausethe convex structure is flexible, it is separated from the secondbaseplate so that it is able to flex.) In the preferred embodiment, theconvex structure has a frusto-conical shape. The manner of capturing theball in the socket in this second embodiment family is identical to thatof the first embodiment family.

[0128] More specifically, the first and second baseplates 50,70 aresimilar to the first and second baseplates 10,30 of the first embodimentfamily described above with regard to each outwardly facing surface52,72 having a vertebral body contact element 54,74 and an adjacentosteoconductive ring 56,76, and each inwardly facing surface 58,78having a perimeter region 60,80, all of which elements in the secondembodiment family are, for example, identical to the correspondingelements in the first embodiment family as described above.

[0129] Further, as with the first embodiment family, the two baseplates50,70 are joined with a ball and socket joint, and therefore each of thebaseplates 50,70 comprises features that, in conjunction with othercomponents described below, form the ball and socket joint. Morespecifically, the first baseplate 50 is formed similarly to the firstbaseplate 10 of the first embodiment family, having a ball 62 mounted toprotrude from the inwardly facing surface 58. The ball 62 preferably hasa semispherical shape defining a spherical contour. The ball 62 isstructurally and functionally identical to the ball 22 of the firstembodiment family, and as such is selectively radially compressible inthe same manner as the ball 22 of the first embodiment family. As withthe ball 22 of the first embodiment family, the ball 62 is capturable ina curvate socket 77 formed at the peak of a convex structure 71protruding from the second baseplate 70. The curvate socket 77 isfunctionally and structurally identical to the curvate socket 37 of thefirst embodiment family. However, in this second embodiment family, theconvex structure 77 of the device, rather than being a flexible separateelement from the second baseplate as in the first embodiment family, isintegral with the second baseplate 70. The convex structure 77 isfrusto-conical, but is not flexible, and therefore does not function asa force restoring element as does the flexible convex structure 37 inthe first embodiment family. Access to the convex structure 77 forproviding easy access to insert the rivet 68 in the axial bore 66 of theball 62 after the ball 62 has been seated in the curvate socket 77 isprovided by an access hole 79 in the second baseplate 70 below andleading to the curvate socket 77. The access hole 79 is otherwisestructurally identical to the access hole 39 in the second baseplate 30of the first embodiment family.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 2g-h, an assembled preferred embodiment of thesecond embodiment family is shown in exploded (FIG. 2g) and assembled(FIG. 2h) views. More particularly, assembly of the disc is preferablyas follows. The first and second baseplates 50,70 are disposed so thattheir outwardly facing surfaces 52,72 face away from one another andtheir inwardly facing surfaces 58,78 are directed toward one another,and so that the ball 62 of the first baseplate 50 is aligned with thecurvate socket 77 of the convex structure 71 of the second baseplate 70.Then, the ball 62 is pressed into the curvate socket 77 under a forcesufficient to narrow the slots 64 and thereby radially compress the ball62 until the ball 62 fits through and passes through the opening of thecurvate socket 77. Once the ball 62 is inside the curvate socket 77, theball 62 will radially expand as the slots 64 widen until it has returnedto its uncompressed state and the spherical contour defined by the ball62 is closely accommodated by the spherical contour defined by thecurvate socket 77 and the ball 62 can rotate and angulate freelyrelative to the curvate socket 77. Thereafter, the rivet 68 is passedthrough the access hole 79 and pressed into the axial bore 66 of theball 62 to prevent any subsequent radially compression of the ball 62and therefore any escape from the curvate socket 77 thereby.

[0131] Accordingly, when the device of the preferred embodiment of thesecond embodiment family is assembled, the baseplates 50,70 arerotatable relative to one another because the ball 62 rotates freelywithin the curvate socket 77, and angulatable relative to one anotherbecause the ball 62 angulates freely within the socket 77. Because theball 62 is held within the curvate socket 77 by a rivet 68 in the axialbore 66 preventing radial compression of the ball 62, the artificialdisc can withstand tension loading of the baseplates 50,70. Moreparticularly, when a tension load is applied to the baseplates 50,70,the ball 62 in the curvate socket 77 seeks to radially compress to fitthrough the opening of the curvate socket 77. However, the rivet 68 inthe axial bore 66 of the ball 62 prevents the radial compression,thereby preventing the ball 62 from exiting the curvate socket 77.Therefore, the assembly does not come apart under normally experiencedtension loads. This ensures that no individual parts of the assemblywill pop out or slip out from between the vertebral bodies when, e.g.,the patient stretches or hangs while exercising or performing otheractivities. Thus, in combination with the securing of the baseplates50,70 to the adjacent vertebral bones via the mesh domes 54,74, the discassembly has an integrity similar to the tension-bearing integrity of ahealthy natural intervertebral disc. Also because the ball 62 islaterally captured in the curvate socket 77, lateral translation of thebaseplates 50,70 relative to one another is prevented during rotationand angulation, similar to the performance of healthy naturalintervertebral disc. Because the baseplates 50,70 are made angulatablerelative to one another by the ball 62 being rotatably and angulatablycoupled in the curvate socket 77, the disc assembly provides a centroidof motion within the ball 62. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of thedisc assembly remains centrally located between the vertebral bodies,similar to the centroid of motion in a healthy natural intervertebraldisc.

[0132] Embodiments of the third embodiment family of the presentinvention will now be described.

[0133] With regard to the configuration of the convex structure in thethird embodiment family, the convex structure is configured as anon-flexible element that is integral with the second baseplate, and hasthe socket of the ball and socket joint at its peak, similar to theconfiguration of the convex structure in the second embodiment family.In the preferred embodiment, the convex structure is shaped to have acurved taper.

[0134] With regard to the manner in which the ball is captured in thesocket in the third embodiment family, the capturing is effected throughthe use of a solid ball. In order to permit the seating of the ball intothe socket formed at the peak of the convex structure, the access holein the second baseplate has a diameter that accommodates the diameter ofthe ball, and leads to the interior of the peak, which interior isformed as a concavity having an opening diameter that accommodates thediameter of the ball. (Preferably, the concavity has a curvature closelyaccommodating the contour of the ball, and the concavity is eitherhemispherical or less-than-hemispherical so that the ball can easily beplaced into it.) Further, in order to maintain the ball in the socket,an extension of the second baseplate (in the form of a cap element) isprovided for sealing the access hole in the second baseplate (orreducing the opening diameter of the hole to a size that does notaccommodate the diameter of the ball). The cap has an interior face thatpreferably has a concavity (that has a curvature that closelyaccommodates the contour of the ball) to complete the socket. The peakof the convex structure has a bore that accommodates a post to which theball and the first baseplate are attached (one to each end of the post),but does not accommodate the ball for passage through the bore.Accordingly, the ball is maintained in the socket.

[0135] A first preferred embodiment of a third embodiment family of thepresent invention will now be described.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 3a-e, a first baseplate 100 of the thirdembodiment family of the present invention is shown in top (FIG. 3a),side (FIG. 3b), side cutaway (FIG. 3c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3d)and perspective (FIG. 3e) views. Also referring to FIGS. 3f-j, a firsttype 200 of a second baseplate of the third embodiment family is shownin top (FIG. 3f), side (FIG. 3g), side cutaway (FIG. 3h), perspectivecutaway (FIG. 3i) and perspective (FIG. 3j) views.

[0137] More specifically, the first and second baseplates 100,200 aresimilar to the first and second baseplates 50,70 of the secondembodiment family described above with regard to each having anoutwardly facing surface 102,202, and each inwardly facing surface108,208 having a perimeter region 110,210, all of which elements in thethird embodiment family are, for example, identical to the correspondingelements in the first embodiment family as described above. However,each of the first and second baseplates 100,200 in this secondembodiment family instead of having a convex mesh as a vertebral bodycontact element, have a convex solid dome 103,203 and a plurality ofspikes 105,205 as vertebral body contact element. Preferably, the dome103,203 is covered with an osteoconductive layer of a type known in theart. It should be noted that the convex solid dome 203 of the secondbaseplate 200 is provided in this embodiment (and the other embodimentsin this family) by the cap element (described below) that serves as anextension of the second baseplate 200 to capture the ball (describedbelow), as best shown in FIGS. 3u-y. It should also be noted that theconvex mesh used in other embodiments of the present invention issuitable for use with these other vertebral body contact elements, andcan be attached over the convex dome 103,203 by laser welding, or morepreferably, by plasma burying (where the perimeter region of the convexmesh is buried under a plasma coating, which coating secures to theoutwardly facing surface of the baseplate to which it is applied, andthus secures the convex mesh to the outwardly facing surface).

[0138] Further, as with the first embodiment family, the two baseplates100,200 are joined with a ball and socket joint, and therefore each ofthe baseplates 100,200 comprises features that, in conjunction withother components described below, form the ball and socket joint. Theball and socket joint includes a solid ball (described below) mounted toprotrude from the inwardly facing surface 108 of the first baseplate100, and a curvate socket formed at a peak of a non-flexible convexstructure (described below) that is integral with the second baseplate200, within which curvate socket the ball is capturable for freerotation and angulation therein. As shown in FIGS. 3a-e, the mountingfor the ball includes a central hole 112 on the inwardly facing surface108 of the first baseplate 100, which hole 112 accepts a tail end of apost (described below) that has the ball at a head end of the post.Preferably, the tail end compression locks into the hole 112. As shownin FIGS. 3f-j, the convex structure 201 is integral with the secondbaseplate 200 and includes a curvate pocket 212 formed by a centralportion of the inwardly facing surface 209 of the convex structure 201convexing inwardly and by a central portion of an outwardly facingsurface 213 of the convex structure 201 concaving inwardly. The pocket212 has a semispherical contour on the central portion of the outwardlyfacing surface 213 and an apex at the center of the semisphericalcontour. Further, the convex structure 201 has a bore 214 through theapex of the pocket 212, to accommodate the post. Further, the secondbaseplate 200 has on its outwardly facing surface 202 an access hole 209surrounded by a circular recess 216 leading to the pocket 212, whichrecess 216 accepts the cap (described below) that serves as an extensionof the second baseplate 200.

[0139] Referring now to FIGS. 3k-o, a first type 300 of the ball of thethird embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 3k), side (FIG. 3l), sidecutaway (FIG. 3m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3n) and perspective (FIG.3o) views. The ball 300 is mounted at a head end 306 of a post 302 thatalso has a tail end 304. The ball 300 defines a spherical contour thatis interrupted by the shaft of the post 302.

[0140] Referring now to FIGS. 3p-t, a first type 400 of the cap of thethird embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 3p), side (FIG. 3q), sidecutaway (FIG. 3r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3s) and perspective (FIG.3t) views. The cap 400 includes an outwardly facing surface 402 thatcomplements the outwardly facing surface 202 of the second baseplate 200when the cap 400 is secured in the circular recess 216 of the secondbaseplate 200 (preferably, as shown, the outwardly facing surface 402 ofthe cap 400 provides the second baseplate 200 with the convex dome 203,as best shown in FIGS. 3u-y). The cap 400 further includes an inwardlyfacing surface 404, and a curvate pocket 406 formed by a central portionof the inwardly facing surface 404 of the cap 400 concaving outwardly.The pocket 406 has a semispherical contour that closely accommodates thespherical contour defined by the ball 300. The semispherical contour ofthe pocket 406 of the cap 400 opposes the semispherical contour of thepocket 212 of the convex structure 201 such that when the cap 400 issecured in the circular recess 216 of the second baseplate 200, thesemispherical contours together define a socket 207 defining a sphericalcontour that closely accommodates the spherical contour defined by theball 300 for free rotation and angulation of the ball 300 in the pockets406,212. Each of the semispherical contour of the pocket 406 and thesemispherical contour of the pocket 212 are preferably no greater thanhemispherical, to make easier the assembly of the device.

[0141] Referring now to FIGS. 3u-y, an assembled first preferredembodiment of the third embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 3u),side (FIG. 3v), side cutaway (FIG. 3w), perspective cutaway (FIG. 3x)and perspective (FIG. 3y) views. More particularly, assembly of the discis preferably as follows. The tail end 304 of the post 302 is passedthrough the access hole 209 in the second baseplate 200 and through thebore 214 at the apex of the curvate pocket 212 of the convex structure201, and the tail end 304 is thereafter secured to the central hole 112in the first baseplate 100. (The access hole 209 has a diameter thataccommodates the diameter of the ball 300 at the head 306 of the post302, and the curvate pocket 212 on the outwardly facing surface 213 ofthe convex structure 201 has an opening diameter that accommodates theball 300 for seating in the pocket 212 when the tail end 304 is fullypassed through the bore 214. Thus, the ball 300 can be placed throughthe access hole 209 and into the curvate pocket during this step.) Thebore 214 at the apex of the curvate pocket 212 has a diameter greaterthan the diameter of the post 302 but smaller than the diameter of theball 300 at the head 306 of the post 302. Therefore, as the ball 300 isbeing placed into the curvate pocket 212, the post 302 fits through thebore 214, but the ball 300 does not, and the convex structure 201 (andthe second baseplate 200) cannot be freed from the ball 300 once thetail end 304 of the post 302 is secured to the first baseplate 100.Although any suitable method is contemplated by the present invention,the attachment of the tail end 304 of the post 302 is preferablyaccomplished by compression locking (if accomplished alternatively oradditionally by laser welding, the laser weld can, e.g., be applied fromthe outwardly facing surface 102 of the first baseplate 100 if the hole112 passes completely through the first baseplate 100). The tail end 304can also alternatively or additionally be threaded into the central hole112 for increased stability of the attachment.

[0142] The semispherical contour of the pocket 212 closely accommodatesthe spherical contour defined by the ball 300, so that the ball 300 canfreely rotate in the pocket 212 about the longitudinal axis of the post302, and can freely angulate in the pocket 212 about a centroid ofmotion located at the center of the ball 300. Further, the bore 214 istapered to a larger diameter toward the first baseplate 100, to permitthe post 302 to angulate (about the centroid of motion at the center ofthe ball 300) with respect to the bore 214 as the ball 300 angulates inthe pocket 212. Preferably, the conformation of the taper accommodatesangulation of the post 302 at least until the perimeter regions 110,210of the inwardly facing surfaces 108,208/211 meet.

[0143] Finally, the cap 400 is secured in the circular recess 216 of thesecond baseplate 200, so that the curvate pocket 406 of the cap 400 andthe opposing curvate pocket 212 of the convex structure 201 togetherform the socket 207 defining the spherical contour within which the ball300 at the head 306 of the post 302 freely rotates and angulates asdescribed above. The application of the cap 400 also seals the accesshole 209 in the second baseplate (or, if the cap 400 has a bore, itpreferably reduces the diameter of the access hole 209 to a size thatdoes not accommodate the diameter of the ball 300). Although anysuitable method is contemplated by the present invention, the cap 400preferably is secured in the circular recess 216 by compression locking(a laser weld can alternatively or additionally be used, or othersuitable attachment means). As stated above, the cap 400 preferably hasan outwardly facing surface 402 that complements the outwardly facingsurface 202 of the second baseplate 200 for surface uniformity once thecap 400 is secured. The cap 400 may also additionally or alternativelybe threaded into the circular recess 216 for increased stability of theattachment.

[0144] Accordingly, when the device of the first preferred embodiment ofthe third embodiment family is assembled, the baseplates are rotatablerelative to one another because the ball 300 rotates freely within thesocket 207, and angulatable relative to one another because the ball 300angulates freely within the socket 207. Because the ball 300 is heldwithin the socket 207 by the securing of the tail end 304 of the post302 to the first baseplate 100 and the securing of the cap 400 to thesecond baseplate 200, the artificial disc can withstand tension loadingof the baseplates 100,200. More particularly, when a tension load isapplied to the baseplates 100,200 the ball 300 seeks to pass through thebore 214 at the apex of the curvate pocket 212. However, the smallerdiameter of the bore 214 relative to the diameter of the ball 300prevents the ball 300 from exiting the socket 207. Therefore, theassembly does not come apart under normally experienced tension loads.This ensures that no individual parts of the assembly will pop out orslip out from between the vertebral bodies when, e.g., the patientstretches or hangs while exercising or performing other activities.Thus, in combination with the securing of the baseplates 100,200 to theadjacent vertebral bones via the domes 103,203 and spikes 105,205, thedisc assembly has an integrity similar to the tension-bearing integrityof a healthy natural intervertebral disc. Also because the ball 300 islaterally captured in the socket 207, lateral translation of thebaseplates 100,200 relative to one another is prevented during rotationand angulation, similar to the performance of healthy naturalintervertebral disc. Because the baseplates 100,200 are made angulatablerelative to one another by the ball 300 being rotatably and angulatablycoupled in the socket 207, the disc assembly provides a centroid ofmotion within the ball 300. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of thedisc assembly remains centrally located between the vertebral bodies,similar to the centroid of motion in a healthy natural intervertebraldisc.

[0145] The remaining embodiments in the third embodiment family of thepresent invention limit the rotation (but preferably not the angulation)of the ball in the socket defined by the pocket of the convex structureand the pocket of the cap. Each embodiment accomplishes this in adifferent manner, but each embodiment utilizes interference between aprotrusion and a recess to limit the rotation. In some embodiments, theprotrusion is preferably hemispherical, and the recess preferably has asemicylindrical contour within which the protrusion fits. In otherembodiments, the protrusion is preferably hemispherical, and the recesspreferably has a curvate contour that is not semicylindrical. (It shouldbe understood that the described formations of the recess and theprotrusion are merely preferred, and that alternate formations, curvateor otherwise, for each are contemplated by the present invention; aparticular shape or location of recess or a particular shape or locationof protrusion is not required; any shape can be used so long as therecess and protrusion interact as desired. For example, the recess inthe second preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family has acurvate contour that is not semicylindrical so that it optimallyinteracts with the protrusion in that embodiment.) The boundaries of therecess define the limits of rotation of the ball within the socket, byallowing movement of the protrusion relative to the recess as the ballrotates through a certain range in the socket, but providinginterference with the protrusion to prevent rotation of the ball beyondthat range in the socket. Preferably, for example, the recess has adepth equivalent to the radius of the protrusion, but a radius ofcurvature greater than that of the protrusion. At the same time, theboundaries of the recess preferably do not limit the angulation of theball within the socket, at least until the perimeter regions of theinwardly facing surfaces meet. Preferably for example, the recess has alength greater than the range of movement of the protrusion relative tothe recess as the ball angulates in the socket.

[0146] Therefore, when assembled, the discs of the remaining preferredembodiments of the third embodiment family enable angulation and limitedrotation of the baseplates relative to one another about a centroid ofmotion that remains centrally located between the baseplates (at thecenter of the sphere defined by the ball), similar to the centroid ofmotion in a healthy natural intervertebral disc that is limited in itsrotation by surrounding body structures. A benefit of limiting therelative rotation of the baseplates is that relative rotation beyond acertain range in a healthy natural disc is neither needed nor desired,because, for example, excess strain can be placed on the facet joints orligaments thereby. As described with the first preferred embodiment ofthe third embodiment family, the construction also prevents translationand separation of the baseplates relative to one another during rotationand angulation.

[0147] As noted above, each of the remaining preferred embodiments inthis third embodiment family forms the protrusion and correspondingrecess in a different manner, utilizing components that are eitheridentical or similar to the components of the first preferredembodiment, and some embodiments utilize additional components. Each ofthe remaining preferred embodiments will now be described in greaterdetail.

[0148] In the second preferred embodiment of the third embodiment familyof the present invention, a hemispherical protrusion is formed on theball itself, and interacts in the above-described manner with a curvaterecess formed adjacent the socket defined by the pocket of the convexstructure and the pocket of the cap. More particularly, this secondpreferred embodiment uses the same first baseplate 100 as the firstpreferred embodiment of the third embodiment family described above.Referring to FIGS. 4a-e, a second type 500 of second baseplate of thethird embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 4a), side (FIG. 4b), sidecutaway (FIG. 4c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4d) and perspective (FIG.4e) views. This second type 500 of second baseplate is identical to thefirst type 200 of second baseplate described above (and thus similarfeatures are reference numbered similar to those of the first type 200of second baseplate, but in the 500s rather than the 200s), except thatthis second type 500 of second baseplate has a curvate recess 518adjacent the curvate pocket 512 in the convex structure 501.

[0149] Referring now to FIGS. 4f-j, a second type 600 of ball of thethird embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 4f), side (FIG. 4g), sidecutaway (FIG. 4h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4i) and perspective (FIG.4j) views. The ball 600 is identical to the first type 300 of balldescribed above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 300 of ball, but in the 600s ratherthan the 300s), except that the spherical contour defined by this secondtype 600 of ball is also interrupted by a hemispherical protrusion 608.

[0150] Referring now to FIGS. 4k-o, a second type 700 of cap of thethird embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 4k), side (FIG. 4l), sidecutaway (FIG. 4m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4n) and perspective (FIG.4o) views. This second type 700 of cap is identical to the first type400 of cap described above (and thus similar features are referencenumbered similar to those of the first type 400 of cap, but in the 700srather than the 400s), except that this second type 700 of cap has acurvate recess 708 adjacent the curvate pocket 706.

[0151] Referring now to FIGS. 4p-t, an assembled second preferredembodiment of the third embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 4p),side (FIG. 4q), side cutaway (FIG. 4r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 4s)and perspective (FIG. 4t) views. It can be seen that the curvaterecesses 518,708 together form the recess described above in thediscussion of the manner in which these remaining embodiments limitrotation of the ball in the socket, and that the protrusion 608 servesas the protrusion described above in the same discussion. Thus, theprotrusion 608 and recesses 518,708 interact in the above describedmanner to limit the rotation of the ball 600 in the socket 507 definedby the curvate pockets 512,706. Assembly of the disc is identical tothat of the first preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family,except that the protrusion 608 is longitudinally aligned with the recess518, and the recess 708 is similarly aligned, so that when the cap 700is secured to the second baseplate 500, the protrusion 608 is fittedwithin the recesses 518,708 for interaction as described above as theball 600 rotates and angulates in the socket 507.

[0152] In the third preferred embodiment of the third embodiment familyof the present invention, a hemispherical protrusion is formed toprotrude into the socket defined by the pocket of the convex structureand the pocket of the cap, and interacts in the above-described mannerwith a semicylindrical recess formed on the ball. More particularly,this third preferred embodiment uses the same first baseplate 100 andthe same cap 400 as the first preferred embodiment of the thirdembodiment family. Referring to FIGS. 5a-e, a third type 800 of secondbaseplate of the third embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 5a), side(FIG. 5b), side cutaway (FIG. 5c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 5d) andperspective (FIG. 5e) views. This third type 800 of second baseplate isidentical to the first type 200 of second baseplate described above (andthus similar features are reference numbered similar to those of thefirst type 200 of second baseplate, but in the 800s rather than the200s), except that this third type 800 of second baseplate has aprotrusion 818 jutting out from the wall of the pocket 812 in the convexstructure 801.

[0153] Referring now to FIGS. 5f-j, a third type 900 of ball of thethird embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 5f), side (FIG. 5g), sidecutaway (FIG. 5h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 5i) and perspective (FIG.5j) views. The ball 900 is identical to the first type 300 of balldescribed above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 300 of ball, but in the 900s ratherthan the 300s), except that the spherical contour of this third type 900of ball is also interrupted by a curvate recess 908.

[0154] Referring now to FIGS. 5k-o, an assembled third preferredembodiment of the third embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 5k),side (FIG. 5l), side cutaway (FIG. 5m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 5n)and perspective (FIG. 5o) views. It can be seen that the curvate recess908 forms the recess described above in the discussion of the manner inwhich these remaining embodiments limit rotation of the ball in thesocket, and that the protrusion 818 serves as the protrusion describedabove in the same discussion. Thus, the protrusion 818 and recess 908interact in the above described manner to limit the rotation of the ball900 in the socket 807 defined by the curvate pockets 812,406. Assemblyof the disc is identical to that of the first preferred embodiment ofthe third embodiment family, except that the protrusion 818 islongitudinally aligned with the recess 908 during assembly so that theprotrusion 818 is fitted within the recess 908 for interaction asdescribed above as the ball 900 rotates and angulates in the socket 807.

[0155] In the fourth preferred embodiment of the third embodiment familyof the present invention, a pin is secured in a pin hole so that thehemispherical head of the pin protrudes into the socket defined by thepocket of the convex structure and the pocket of the cap, and interactsin the above-described manner with a semicylindrical recess formed onthe ball. More particularly, this fourth preferred embodiment uses thesame first baseplate 100 and cap 400 of the first preferred embodiment,and the same ball 900 of the third preferred embodiment, but utilizes afourth type of second baseplate of the third embodiment family.Referring to FIGS. 6a-e, the fourth type 1000 of second baseplate isshown in top (FIG. 6a), side (FIG. 6b), side cutaway (FIG. 6c),perspective cutaway (FIG. 6d) and perspective (FIG. 6e) views. Thisfourth type 1000 of second baseplate is identical to the first type 200of second baseplate described above (and thus similar features arereference numbered similar to those of the first type 200 of secondbaseplate, but in the 1000s rather than the 200s), except that thisfourth type 1000 of second baseplate has a lateral through hole (e.g., apin hole 1020) and a protrusion (e.g., a pin 1018) secured in the pinhole 1020 (as shown in FIGS. 6f-j) with the hemispherical head of thepin 1018 jutting out from the wall of the pocket 1012 toward the centerof the pocket 1012 in the convex structure 1001.

[0156] Referring now to FIGS. 6f-j, an assembled fourth preferredembodiment of the third embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 6f),side (FIG. 6g), side cutaway (FIG. 6h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 6i)and perspective (FIG. 6j) views. It can be seen that the curvate recess908 of the ball 900 forms the recess described above in the discussionof the manner in which these remaining embodiments limit rotation of theball in the socket, and that the head of the pin 1018 serves as theprotrusion described above in the same discussion. Thus, the head of thepin 1018 and the recess 908 interact in the above described manner tolimit the rotation of the ball 900 in the socket 1007 defined by thecurvate pockets 1012,406. Assembly of the disc is identical to that ofthe first preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family, exceptthat the head of the pin 1018 is longitudinally aligned with the recess908 during assembly so that the head of the pin 1018 is fitted withinthe recess 908 for interaction as described above as the ball 900rotates and angulates in the socket 1007.

[0157] In the fifth preferred embodiment of the third embodiment familyof the present invention, a ball bearing protrudes into the socketdefined by the pocket of the convex structure and the pocket of the cap,and interacts in the above-described manner with a semicylindricalrecess formed on the ball. More particularly, this fifth preferredembodiment uses the same first baseplate 100 and cap 400 of the firstpreferred embodiment, and the same ball 900 of the third preferredembodiment, but utilizes a fifth type of second baseplate of the thirdembodiment family. Referring to FIGS. 7a-e, the fifth type 1200 ofsecond baseplate is shown in top (FIG. 7a), side (FIG. 7b), side cutaway(FIG. 7c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 7d) and perspective (FIG. 7e)views. This fifth type 1200 of second baseplate is identical to thefirst type 200 of second baseplate described above (and thus similarfeatures are reference numbered similar to those of the first type 200of second baseplate, but in the 1200s rather than the 200s), except thatthis fifth type 1200 of second baseplate has a recess 1218 adjacent thecurvate pocket 1212 in the convex structure 1201, the recess 1218preferably being semicylindrical as shown.

[0158] Referring now to FIGS. 7f-j, an assembled fifth preferredembodiment of the third embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 7f),side (FIG. 7g), side cutaway (FIG. 7h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 7i)and perspective (FIG. 7j) views. A ball bearing 1300 of the thirdembodiment family is captured for free rotation and angulation with onepart closely accommodated in the semicylindrical recess 1218 and onepart protruding into the curvate pocket 1212 to interact with thecurvate recess 908 of the ball 900. It can be seen that the curvaterecess 908 of the ball 900 forms the recess described above in thediscussion of the manner in which these remaining embodiments limitrotation of the ball in the socket, and that the ball bearing 1300serves as the protrusion described above in the same discussion. Thus,the ball bearing 1300 and the recess 908 interact in the above describedmanner to limit the rotation of the ball 900 in the socket 1207 definedby the curvate pockets 1212,406. Assembly of the disc is identical tothat of the first preferred embodiment of the third embodiment family,except that the semicylindrical recess 1218 is longitudinally alignedwith the curvate recess 908 during assembly so that the ball bearing1300 can be and is then placed into the recesses 1218,908 forinteraction as described above as the ball 900 rotates and angulates inthe socket 1207.

[0159] Embodiments of the fourth embodiment family of the presentinvention will now be described.

[0160] With regard to the configuration of the convex structure in thefourth embodiment family, the convex structure is configured as anon-flexible element that has the socket of the ball and socket joint atits peak. In the preferred embodiment, the convex structure is shaped tohave a curved taper, similar to the configuration of the convexstructure in the third embodiment family. The convex structure in thefourth embodiment family is separated from the second baseplate duringassembly of the device, for reasons related to the manner in which theball is captured in the socket, but is attached to the second baseplateby the time assembly is complete.

[0161] With regard to the manner in which the ball is captured in thesocket in the fourth embodiment family, the capturing is effectedthrough the use of a solid ball. In order to permit the seating of theball into the socket formed at the peak of the convex structure, theconvex structure is a separate element from the second baseplate. Theball is first seated against the central portion of the second baseplate(which central portion preferably has a concavity that has a curvaturethat closely accommodates the contour of the ball), and then the convexstructure is placed over the ball to seat the ball in the socket formedin the interior of the peak of the convex structure (the interior ispreferably formed as a concavity that is either hemispherical orless-than-hemispherical so that the ball can easily fit into it). Afterthe convex structure is placed over the ball, the convex structure isattached to the second baseplate to secure the ball in the socket. As inthe third embodiment family, the peak of the convex structure has a borethat accommodates a post to which the ball and the first baseplate areattached (one to each end of the post), but does not accommodate theball for passage through the bore. Accordingly, the ball is maintainedin the socket.

[0162] A first preferred embodiment of a fourth embodiment family of thepresent invention will now be described.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 8a-e, a first baseplate 1400 of a fourthembodiment family of the present invention is shown in top (FIG. 8a),side (FIG. 8b), side cutaway (FIG. 8c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8d)and perspective (FIG. 8e) views. Also referring to FIGS. 8f-j, a firsttype 1500 of a second baseplate of the fourth embodiment family is shownin top (FIG. 8f), side (FIG. 8g), side cutaway (FIG. 8h), perspectivecutaway (FIG. 8i) and perspective (FIG. 8j) views.

[0164] More specifically, the first and second baseplates 1400,1500 aresimilar to the first and second baseplates of the third embodimentfamily described above with regard to their outwardly facing surfaces1402,1502 having a convex dome 1403,1503 and a plurality of spikes1405,1505 as vertebral body contact elements, and the inwardly facingsurface 1408 of the first baseplate having a perimeter region 1410, allof which elements in the fourth embodiment family are, for example,identical to the corresponding elements in the third embodiment familyas described above. Preferably, the dome 1403,1503 is covered with anosteoconductive layer of a type known in the art. It should be notedthat the convex mesh used in other embodiments of the present inventionis suitable for use with these other vertebral body contact elements,and can be attached over the convex dome 1403,1503 by laser welding, ormore preferably, by plasma burying (where the perimeter region of theconvex mesh is buried under a plasma coating, which coating secures tothe outwardly facing surface of the baseplate to which it is applied,and thus secures the convex mesh to the outwardly facing surface).

[0165] Further, as with the first embodiment family, the two baseplates1400,1500 are joined with a ball and socket joint, and therefore each ofthe baseplates 1400,1500 comprises features that, in conjunction withother components described below, form the ball and socket joint. Theball and socket joint includes a solid ball (described below) mounted toprotrude from the inwardly facing surface 1408 of the first baseplate1400, and a curvate socket formed at a peak of a non-flexible convexstructure (described below) that is attached to the inwardly facingsurface 1508 of the second baseplate 1500, within which curvate socketthe ball is capturable for free rotation and angulation therein. Asshown in FIGS. 8a-d, the mounting for the ball includes a centralinwardly directed post 1412 that extends from the inwardly facingsurface 1408 of the first baseplate 1400, which post's head endcompression locks into a central bore in the ball (described below). Asshown in FIGS. 8e-h, the second baseplate 1500 includes an inwardlyfacing surface 1508 and a curvate pocket 1512 formed by a centralportion of the inwardly facing surface 1508 concaving outwardly with asemispherical contour (preferably a hemispherical contour). Preferably,as shown, the curvate pocket 1512 is surrounded by a circumferentialwall 1514 and a circumferential recess 1516 that cooperate with theconvex structure to attach the convex structure to the second baseplate1500.

[0166] Referring now to FIGS. 8k-o, a first type 1600 of a ball of thefourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 8k), side (FIG. 8l), sidecutaway (FIG. 8m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8n) and perspective (FIG.8o) views. The ball 1600 is semispherical (preferably greater thanhemispherical as shown) and therefore defines a spherical contour, andhas a central bore 1610 within which the first baseplate's post's headend is securable. The ball 1600 seats in the curvate pocket 1512 of thesecond baseplate 1500 with the spherical contour defined by the ball1600 closely accommodated by the hemispherical contour of the curvatepocket 1512 for free rotation and free angulation of the ball 1600 inthe curvate pocket 1512.

[0167] Referring now to FIGS. 8p-t, a first type 1700 of a convexstructure of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 8p),side (FIG. 8q), side cutaway (FIG. 8r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8s)and perspective (FIG. 8t) views. The convex structure 1700 is shaped tohave a curved taper on its inwardly facing surface 1706 (as opposed tothe frusto-conical shape of the convex structure in the first and secondembodiment families) and includes a central bore 1702 extending from anoutwardly facing surface 1704 of the convex structure 1700 to aninwardly facing surface 1706 of the convex structure 1700, the bore 1702being surrounded by a curvate taper 1708 on the outwardly facing surface1704, and the curvate taper 1708 being surrounded by a circumferentialrecess 1710 and a circumferential wall 1712. The convex structure 1700is securable to the second baseplate 1500 with the circumferentialrecess 1710 of the convex structure 1700 mating with the circumferentialwall 1514 of the second baseplate 1600 and the circumferential wall 1712of the convex structure 1700 mating with the circumferential recess 1516of the second baseplate 1500, so that when the convex structure 1700 isso secured, the curvate taper 1708 of the convex structure 1700 servesas a curvate pocket opposite the curvate pocket 1512 of the secondbaseplate 1500. That is, the curvate pocket 1708 complements thehemispherical contour of the curvate pocket 1512 of the second baseplate1500 to form a semispherical (and preferably greater than hemisphericalas shown) socket 1707 defining a spherical contour that closelyaccommodates the spherical contour defined by the ball 1600 so that theball 1600 is captured in the socket 1707 for free rotation and freeangulation of the ball 1600 therein. (When the formed socket 1707 isgreater than hemispherical, and the shape of the ball 1600 is greaterthan hemispherical, the ball 1600 cannot escape the formed socket 1707.)Further, the inwardly facing surface 1706 of the convex structure 1700has a perimeter region 1714 that faces the perimeter region 1410 of thefirst baseplate 1400 when the convex structure 1700 is secured to thesecond baseplate 1500.

[0168] Referring now to FIGS. 8u-y, an assembled first preferredembodiment of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 8u),side (FIG. 8v), side cutaway (FIG. 8w), perspective cutaway (FIG. 8x)and perspective (FIG. 8y) views. More particularly, assembly of the discis preferably as follows. The ball 1600 is seated within the curvatepocket 1512 of the second baseplate 1500 (the curvate pocket 1512 has anopening diameter that accommodates the ball 1600) so that the sphericalcontour defined by the ball 1600 is closely accommodated by thehemispherical contour of the curvate pocket 1512. Thereafter, the convexstructure 1700 is secured to the second baseplate 1500 as describedabove with the convex structure's curvate pocket 1708 (the curvatetapered lip 1708 of the convex structure's central bore 1702) fittingagainst the ball 1600 so that the ball 1600 is captured in the socket1707 (formed by the curvate taper 1708 and the curvate pocket 1512) forfree rotation and free angulation of the ball 1600 therein. Thereafter,the first baseplate's post's head end is secured into the bore 1602 ofthe ball 1600. The central bore 1702 of the convex structure 1700 has adiameter that accommodates the diameter of the post 1412, but not thediameter of the ball 1600. Therefore, after the ball 1600 is secured inthe socket 1707, the post 1412 fits through the bore 1702 so that thehead end of the post 1412 can be compression locked to the ball 1600,but the ball 1600 is prevented from escaping the socket 1707 through thecentral bore 1702 of the convex structure 1700.

[0169] Accordingly, the ball 1600 is captured in the socket 1707 (sothat the device will not separate in tension), can freely rotate in thesocket 1707 about the longitudinal axis of the post 1412, and can freelyangulate in the socket 1707 about a centroid of motion located at thecenter of the sphere defined by the ball 1600. Further, the opening ofthe bore 1702 of the cap 1700 on the inwardly facing surface 1706 of theconvex structure 1700 is large enough to permit the post 1412 toangulate (about the centroid of motion at the center of the spheredefined by the ball 1600) with respect to the bore 1702 as the ball 1600angulates in the socket 1707. Preferably, the conformation of the bore1702 accommodates angulation of the post 1412 at least until theperimeter regions 1410,1714 of the inwardly facing surfaces1408,1508/1706 meet. Further preferably, the perimeter regions 1410,1714have corresponding contours, so that the meeting of the perimeterregions reduces any surface wearing.

[0170] Accordingly, when the device of the first preferred embodiment ofthe fourth embodiment family is assembled, the baseplates 1400,1500 arerotatable relative to one another because the ball 1600 rotates freelywithin the socket 1707, and angulatable relative to one another becausethe ball 1600 angulates freely within the socket 1707. Because the ball1600 is held within the socket 1707 by the securing of the tail end ofthe central post 1412 of the first baseplate 1400 to the ball 1600 andthe securing of the convex structure 1700 to the second baseplate 1500,the artificial disc can withstand tension loading of the baseplates1400,1500. More particularly, when a tension load is applied to thebaseplates 1400,1500 the ball 1600 seeks to pass through the bore 1702in the convex structure 1700. However, the curvate taper 1708 of thebore 1702 prevents the ball 1600 from exiting the socket 1707.Therefore, the assembly does not come apart under normally experiencedtension loads. This ensures that no individual parts of the assemblywill pop out or slip out from between the vertebral bodies when, e.g.,the patient stretches or hangs while exercising or performing otheractivities. Thus, in combination with the securing of the baseplates1400,1500 to the adjacent vertebral bones via the domes 1403,1503 andspikes 1405,1505, the disc assembly has an integrity similar to thetension-bearing integrity of a healthy natural intervertebral disc.Also, because the ball 1600 is laterally captured in the socket 1707,lateral translation of the baseplates 1400,1500 relative to one anotheris prevented during rotation and angulation, similar to the performanceof healthy natural intervertebral disc. Because the baseplates 1400,1500are made angulatable relative to one another by the ball 1600 beingrotatably and angulatably coupled in the socket 1707, the disc assemblyprovides a centroid of motion within the sphere defined by the ball1600. Accordingly, the centroid of motion of the disc assembly remainscentrally located between the vertebral bodies, similar to the centroidof motion in a healthy natural intervertebral disc.

[0171] The remaining embodiments in the fourth embodiment family of thepresent invention limit the rotation (but preferably not the angulation)of the ball in the socket formed by the curvate taper of the convexstructure and the hemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of thesecond baseplate. Each embodiment accomplishes this in a differentmanner, but each embodiment utilizes interference between a protrusionand a recess to limit the rotation, similar to the manner in which suchinterference is utilized in the third embodiment family. In someembodiments, the protrusion is preferably hemispherical, and the recesspreferably has a semicylindrical contour within which the protrusionfits. In other embodiments, the protrusion is preferably hemispherical,and the recess preferably has a curvate contour that is notsemicylindrical. (It should be understood that the described formationsof the recess and the protrusion are merely preferred, and thatalternate formations, curvate or otherwise, for each are contemplated bythe present invention; a particular shape or location of recess or aparticular shape or location of protrusion is not required; any shapecan be used so long as the recess and protrusion interact as desired.For example, the recess in the second preferred embodiment of the fourthembodiment family has a curvate contour that is not semicylindrical, andthe recess in the fifth preferred embodiment of the fourth embodimentfamily has a different curvate contour that is not semicylindrical, eachbeing formed so that it optimally interacts with the protrusion in itsrespective embodiment.) The boundaries of the recess define the limitsof rotation of the ball within the socket, by allowing movement of theprotrusion relative to the recess as the ball rotates through a certainrange in the socket, but providing interference with the protrusion toprevent rotation of the ball beyond that range in the socket.Preferably, for example, the recess has a depth equivalent to the radiusof the hemispherical protrusion, but a radius of curvature greater thanthat of the protrusion. At the same time, the boundaries of the recesspreferably do not limit the angulation of the ball within the socket, atleast until the perimeter regions of the inwardly facing surface of theconvex structure and the inwardly facing surface of the first baseplatemeet. Preferably, for example, the recess has a length greater than therange of movement of the protrusion relative to the recess as the ballangulates in the socket.

[0172] Therefore, when assembled, the discs of the remaining preferredembodiments of the fourth embodiment family enable angulation andlimited rotation of the baseplates relative to one another about acentroid of motion that remains centrally located between the baseplates(at the center of the sphere defined by the ball), similar to thecentroid of motion in a healthy natural intervertebral disc that islimited in its rotation by surrounding body structures. A benefit oflimiting the relative rotation of the baseplates is that relativerotation beyond a certain range in a healthy natural disc is neitherneeded nor desired, because, for example, excess strain can be placed onthe facet joints or ligaments thereby. As described with the firstpreferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment family, the constructionalso prevents translation and separation of the baseplates relative toone another during rotation and angulation.

[0173] As noted above, each of the remaining preferred embodiments inthis fourth embodiment family forms the protrusion and correspondingrecess in a different manner, utilizing components that are eitheridentical or similar to the components of the first preferredembodiment, and some embodiments utilize additional components. Each ofthe remaining preferred embodiments will now be described in greaterdetail.

[0174] In the second preferred embodiment of the fourth embodimentfamily of the present invention, a hemispherical protrusion is formed onthe ball, and interacts in the above-described manner with a recessformed adjacent the socket formed by the curvate taper of the convexstructure and the hemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of thesecond baseplate. More particularly, this second preferred embodimentuses the same first baseplate 1400 as the first preferred embodiment ofthe fourth embodiment family described above. Referring to FIGS. 9a-e, asecond type 1800 of second baseplate of the fourth embodiment family isshown in to top (FIG. 9a), side (FIG. 9b), side cutaway (FIG. 9c),perspective cutaway (FIG. 9d) and perspective (FIG. 9e) views. Thissecond type 1800 of second baseplate is identical to the first type 1500of second baseplate described above (and thus similar features arereference numbered similar to those of the first type 1500 of secondbaseplate, but in the 1800s rather than the 1500s), except that thissecond type 1800 of second baseplate has a curvate recess 1818 adjacentthe curvate pocket 1812, and preferably in the circumferential wall1814.

[0175] Referring now to FIGS. 9f-j, a second type 1900 of ball of thefourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 9f), side (FIG. 9g), sidecutaway (FIG. 9h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9i) and perspective (FIG.9j) views. The ball 1900 is identical to the first type 1600 of balldescribed above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 1600 of ball, but in the 1900s ratherthan the 1600s), except that the semispherical contour of this secondtype 1900 of ball is also interrupted by a hemispherical protrusion1904.

[0176] Referring now to FIGS. 9k-o, a second type 2000 of convexstructure of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 9k),side (FIG. 9l), side cutaway (FIG. 9m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9n)and perspective (FIG. 9o) views. This second type 2000 of convexstructure is identical to the first type 1700 of convex structuredescribed above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 1700 of convex structure, but in the2000s rather than the 1700s), except that this second type 2000 ofconvex structure has a curvate recess 2016 adjacent the curvate taper2008.

[0177] Referring now to FIGS. 9p-t, an assembled second preferredembodiment of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 9p),side (FIG. 9q), side cutaway (FIG. 9r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 9s)and perspective (FIG. 9t) views. It can be seen that the curvaterecesses 1818,2016 together form the recess described above in thediscussion of the manner in which these remaining embodiments limitrotation of the ball in the socket formed by the curvate taper of theconvex structure and the hemispherical contour of the curvate pocket ofthe second baseplate, and that the protrusion 1904 serves as theprotrusion described above in the same discussion. Thus, the protrusion1904 and recesses 1818,2016 interact in the above described manner tolimit the rotation of the ball 1900 in the socket 2007. Assembly of thedisc is identical to that of the first preferred embodiment of thefourth embodiment family, except that the protrusion 1904 islongitudinally aligned with the recess 1818, and the recess 2016 issimilarly aligned, so that when the convex structure 2000 is secured tothe second baseplate 1800, the protrusion 1904 is fitted within therecesses 1818,2016 for interaction as described above as the ball 1900rotates and angulates in the socket 2007.

[0178] In the third preferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment familyof the present invention, a hemispherical protrusion is formed toprotrude into the socket formed by the curvate taper of the convexstructure and the hemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of thesecond baseplate, and interacts in the above-described manner with asemicylindrical recess formed on the ball. More particularly, this thirdpreferred embodiment uses the same first baseplate 1400 as the firstpreferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment family described above.Referring to FIGS. 10a-e, a third type 2100 of second baseplate of thefourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 10a), side (FIG. 10b),side cutaway (FIG. 10c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10d) and perspective(FIG. 10e) views. This third type 2100 of second baseplate is identicalto the first type 1500 of second baseplate described above (and thussimilar features are reference numbered similar to those of the firsttype 1500 of second baseplate, but in the 2100s rather than the 1500s),except that this third type 2100 of second baseplate has a recess 2118adjacent the curvate pocket 2112, and preferably in the circumferentialwall 2114 as shown.

[0179] Referring now to FIGS. 10f-j, a third type 2200 of ball of thefourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 10f), side (FIG. 10g),side cutaway (FIG. 10h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10i) and perspective(FIG. 10j) views. The ball 2200 is identical to the first type 1600 ofball described above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 1600 of ball, but in the 2200s ratherthan the 1600s), except that the semispherical contour of this thirdtype 2200 of ball is also interrupted by a curvate recess 2204.

[0180] Referring now to FIGS. 10k-o, a third type 2300 of convexstructure of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 10k),side (FIG. 10l), side cutaway (FIG. 10m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10n)and perspective (FIG. 10o) views. This third type 2300 of convexstructure is identical to the first type 1700 of convex structuredescribed above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 1700 of convex structure, but in the2300s rather than the 1700s), except that this third type 2300 of convexstructure has a protrusion 2316 adjacent the curvate taper 2008.

[0181] Referring now to FIGS. 10p-t, an assembled third preferredembodiment of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 10p),side (FIG. 10q), side cutaway (FIG. 10r), perspective cutaway (FIG. 10s)and perspective (FIG. 10t) views. It can be seen that the curvate recess2204 of the ball 2200 forms the recess described above in the discussionof the manner in which these remaining embodiments limit rotation of theball in the socket formed by the curvate taper of the convex structureand the hemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of the secondbaseplate, and that the protrusion 2316 fits into the recess 2118 toserve as the protrusion described above in the same discussion. Thus,the protrusion 2316 and the recess 2204 interact in the above describedmanner to limit the rotation of the ball 2200 in the socket 2307.Assembly of the disc is identical to that of the first preferredembodiment of the fourth embodiment family, except that the protrusion2316 is longitudinally aligned with the recess 2204 and the recess 2118during assembly so that the protrusion 2316 fits into the recess 2118 toextend into the recess 2204 for interaction as described above as theball 2200 rotates and angulates in the socket 2307.

[0182] In the fourth preferred embodiment of the fourth embodimentfamily of the present invention, a pin is secured in a pin hole so thatthe hemispherical head of the pin protrudes into the socket formed bythe curvate taper of the convex structure and the hemispherical contourof the curvate pocket of the second baseplate, and interacts in theabove-described manner with a semicylindrical recess formed on the ball.More particularly, this fourth preferred embodiment uses the same firstbaseplate 1400 of the first preferred embodiment, and the same ball 2200and second baseplate 2100 of the fourth preferred embodiment. Referringto FIGS. 11a-e, a fourth type 2400 of convex structure of the fourthembodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 11a), side (FIG. 11b), sidecutaway (FIG. 11c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 11d) and perspective (FIG.11e) views. This fourth type 2400 of convex structure is identical tothe first type 1700 of convex structure described above (and thussimilar features are reference numbered similar to those of the firsttype 1700 of convex structure, but in the 2400s rather than the 1700s),except that this fourth type 2400 of convex structure has a lateralthrough hole (e.g., a pin hole 2416) and a protrusion (e.g., a pin 2418)secured in the pin hole 2416 (as shown in FIGS. 11f-j) and jutting intothe socket 2407.

[0183] Referring now to FIGS. 11f-j, an assembled fourth preferredembodiment of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 11f),side (FIG. 11g), side cutaway (FIG. 11h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 11i)and perspective (FIG. 11j) views. It can be seen that the curvate recess2204 of the ball 2200 forms the recess described above in the discussionof the manner in which these remaining embodiments limit rotation of theball in the socket formed by the curvate taper of the convex structureand the hemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of the secondbaseplate, and that the head of the pin 2418 serves as the protrusiondescribed above in the same discussion. Thus, the head of the pin 2418and the recess 2204 interact in the above described manner to limit therotation of the ball 2200 in the socket 2407. Assembly of the disc isidentical to that of the first preferred embodiment of the fourthembodiment family, except that the head of the pin 2418 islongitudinally aligned with the recess 2204 and the recess 2118 duringassembly so that the head of the pin 2418 fits into the recess 2118 toextend into the recess 2204 for interaction as described above as theball 2200 rotates and angulates in the socket 2407.

[0184] In the fifth preferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment familyof the present invention, a ball bearing protrudes into the socketformed by the curvate taper of the convex structure and thehemispherical contour of the curvate pocket of the second baseplate, andinteracts in the above-described manner with a recess formed on theball. More particularly, this fifth preferred embodiment uses the samefirst baseplate 1400 of the first preferred embodiment, and the samesecond baseplate 2100 of the third preferred embodiment. Referring toFIGS. 12a-e, a fifth type 2500 of convex structure of the fourthembodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 12a), side (FIG. 12b), sidecutaway (FIG. 12c), perspective cutaway (FIG. 12d) and perspective (FIG.12e) views. This fifth type 2500 of convex structure is identical to thefirst type 1700 of convex structure described above (and thus similarfeatures are reference numbered similar to those of the first type 1700of convex structure, but in the 2500s rather than the 1700s), exceptthat this fifth type 2500 of convex structure has a has a recess 2516adjacent the curvate taper 2508.

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 12f-j, a fourth type of ball 2700 of thefourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 12f), side (FIG. 12g),side cutaway (FIG. 12h), perspective cutaway (FIG. 12i) and perspective(FIG. 12j) views. The ball 2700 is identical to the first type 1600 ofball described above (and thus similar features are reference numberedsimilar to those of the first type 1600 of ball, but in the 2700s ratherthan the 1600s), except that the semispherical contour of this thirdtype 2700 of ball is also interrupted by a curvate recess 2704.

[0186] Referring now to FIGS. 12k-o, an assembled fifth preferredembodiment of the fourth embodiment family is shown in top (FIG. 12k),side (FIG. 12l), side cutaway (FIG. 12m), perspective cutaway (FIG. 12n)and perspective (FIG. 12o) views. A ball bearing 2600 of the fourthembodiment family is captured for free rotation and angulation, with onepart of the ball bearing 2600 closely accommodated in the recesses2118,2516, and another part of the ball bearing 2600 protruding into thesocket to interact with the curvate recess 2704 of the ball 2700. It canbe seen that the curvate recess 2704 of the ball 2704 forms the recessdescribed above in the discussion of the manner in which these remainingembodiments limit rotation of the ball in the socket, and that the ballbearing 2600 serves as the protrusion described above in the samediscussion. Thus, the ball bearing 2600 and the recess 2704 interact inthe above described manner to limit the rotation of the ball 2700 in thesocket 2507. Assembly of the disc is identical to that of the firstpreferred embodiment of the fourth embodiment family, except that therecess 2704 is aligned with the curvate recess 2118 during assembly sothat the ball bearing 2600 can be and is then placed into the recesses2118,2704 (and then captured in the recess 2118 by the recess 2516 ofthe convex structure 2500) for interaction as described above as theball 2700 rotates and angulates in the socket 2507.

[0187] While there has been described and illustrated specificembodiments of an artificial disc, it will be apparent to those skilledin the art that variations and modifications are possible withoutdeviating from the broad spirit and principle of the invention. Theinvention, therefore, shall not be limited to the specific embodimentsdiscussed herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An intervertebral spacer device, comprising: afirst baseplate, having an outwardly facing surface and an inwardlyfacing surface, the inwardly facing surface having a central postextending therefrom, the post having a longitudinal axis and a head endthat is inwardly directed toward the second baseplate; a secondbaseplate, having an outwardly facing surface and an inwardly facingsurface, the second baseplate's inwardly facing surface having a curvatepocket formed by a central portion of the second baseplate's inwardlyfacing surface concaving outwardly to define a semispherical contour; aconvex structure having an outwardly facing surface and an inwardlyfacing surface, the convex structure further having a central boreextending from the convex structure's inwardly facing surface to theconvex structure's outwardly facing surface, the convex structure'scentral bore having an opening on the convex structure's outwardlyfacing surface that is surrounded by a curvate taper defining asemispherical contour, the convex structure further having a recessadjacent the curvate taper; a ball defining a spherical contour, theball having a curvate recess and a central bore; and a ball bearing;wherein the ball is seatable in the curvate pocket; and wherein theconvex structure's outwardly facing surface is securable to the secondbaseplate's inwardly facing surface, the securing of the convexstructure to the second baseplate establishing a curvate socket formedby the second baseplate's curvate pocket and the convex structure'scurvate taper, the curvate socket defining a spherical contour, thesecuring of the convex structure to the second baseplate aligning theconvex structure's recess and the ball's curvate recess; and wherein theball bearing is disposable within the convex structure's recess and theball's curvate recess such that at least a portion of the ball bearingextends into the curvate socket; and wherein the ball is therebycapturable in the curvate socket, with the curvate socket's sphericalcontour accommodating the ball's spherical contour for rotation andangulation of the ball in the curvate socket about a central portion ofthe ball, and with the convex structure's recess and the ball's curvaterecess accommodating the ball bearing to limit rotation of the ball inthe curvate socket; and wherein the post is disposable through theconvex structure's central bore and the post's head end is securable tothe ball's central bore, such that the post is accommodated for rotationin the convex structure's central bore about the post's longitudinalaxis as the ball rotates in the curvate socket, and such that the postis accommodated for angulation in the convex structure's central boreabout the ball's central portion as the ball angulates in the curvatesocket.
 2. The intervertebral spacer device of claim 1, wherein theball's curvate recess has boundaries that define limits of rotation ofthe ball within the curvate socket in that the ball's rotation withinthe curvate socket is limited by interference between the ball bearingand the boundaries.
 3. The intervertebral spacer device of claim 2,wherein the ball's curvate recess's boundaries accommodate angulation ofthe ball within the curvate socket.
 4. The intervertebral spacer deviceof claim 1, wherein each of the inwardly facing surface of the firstbaseplate and the inwardly facing surface of the convex structure has arespective perimeter region, and the perimeter regions havecorresponding contours that reduce surface wearing during rotation andangulation of the ball in the curvate socket.
 5. The intervertebralspacer device of claim 1, wherein the second baseplate's curvate pocketis surrounded by a circumferential wall and a circumferential recess onthe second baseplate's inwardly facing surface, and the convexstructure's curvate taper is surrounded by a circumferential recess anda circumferential wall on the convex structure's outwardly facingsurface, and the convex structure's outwardly facing surface issecurable to the second baseplate's inwardly facing surface by a matingof the second baseplate's circumferential wall with the convexstructure's circumferential recess and a mating of the convexstructure's circumferential wall with the second baseplate'scircumferential recess.
 6. The intervertebral spacer device of claim 1,wherein the convex structure's inwardly facing surface is compressionlockable to the second baseplate's inwardly facing surface.
 7. Theintervertebral spacer device of claim 1, wherein the convex structure'scentral bore is tapered to a larger diameter toward the convexstructure's inwardly facing surface, and the post is accommodated, bythe convex structure's central bore being tapered, for angulation in theconvex structure's central bore about the ball's central portion as theball angulates in the socket.
 8. The intervertebral spacer device ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the curvate pocket and the curvatetaper has a hemispherical contour.
 9. The intervertebral spacer deviceof claim 1, wherein at least one of the baseplates has an osteoinductivevertebral body contact surface on its outwardly facing surface.
 10. Theintervertebral spacer device of claim 1, wherein the post's head end iscompression lockable into the ball's central bore.
 11. Theintervertebral spacer device of claim 1, wherein the ball bearing has aradius of curvature, and the ball's curvate recess has a semicylindricalcontour having a depth accommodating, and a radius of curvature greaterthan, the ball bearing's radius of curvature.
 12. An intervertebralspacer device, comprising: a first baseplate, having an outwardly facingsurface and an inwardly facing surface, the inwardly facing surfacehaving a central post extending therefrom, the post having alongitudinal axis and a ball at a head end of the post that is inwardlydirected toward the second baseplate, the ball defining a sphericalcontour and having a curvate recess; a second baseplate, having anoutwardly facing surface and an inwardly facing surface, the secondbaseplate's inwardly facing surface having a convex structureestablishing a curvate socket communicating with a central bore throughthe convex structure, the curvate socket defining a spherical contour,the convex structure further having a recess adjacent the curvatesocket; and a ball bearing; wherein the ball is capturable in thecurvate socket, with the curvate socket's spherical contouraccommodating the ball's spherical contour for rotation and angulationof the ball in the curvate socket about a central portion of the ball;with the ball's curvate recess and the convex structure's recessaccommodating the ball bearing to limit rotation of the ball in thecurvate socket; and with the convex structure's central boreaccommodating the post for rotation in the convex structure's centralbore about the post's longitudinal axis as the ball rotates in thecurvate socket, and accommodating the post for angulation in the convexstructure's central bore about the ball's central portion as the ballangulates in the curvate socket.
 13. The intervertebral spacer device ofclaim 12, wherein the ball's curvate recess has boundaries that definelimits of rotation of the ball within the curvate socket in that theball's rotation within the curvate socket is limited by interferencebetween the ball bearing and the boundaries.
 14. The intervertebralspacer device of claim 13, wherein the ball's curvate recess'sboundaries accommodate angulation of the ball within the curvate socket.15. The intervertebral spacer device of claim 12, wherein each of thefirst baseplate and the convex structure has a respective inwardlyfacing perimeter region, and the perimeter regions have correspondingcontours that reduce surface wearing during rotation and angulation ofthe ball in the curvate socket.
 16. The, intervertebral spacer device ofclaim 12, wherein the convex structure's central bore is tapered to alarger diameter toward the first baseplate, and the post isaccommodated, by the convex structure's central bore being tapered, forangulation in the convex structure's central bore about the ball'scentral portion as the ball angulates in the curvate socket.
 17. Theintervertebral spacer device of claim 12, wherein at least one of thebaseplates has an osteoinductive vertebral body contact surface on itsoutwardly facing surface.
 18. The intervertebral spacer device of claim12, wherein the ball bearing has a radius of curvature, and the ball'scurvate recess has a semicylindrical contour having a depthaccommodating, and a radius of curvature greater than, the ballbearing's radius of curvature.
 19. An artificial intervertebral disc,comprising: a first baseplate, having an outwardly facing surface and aninwardly facing surface having a central post extending therefrom, thepost having a longitudinal axis and a head end that is inwardly directedtoward the second baseplate; a second baseplate, having an outwardlyfacing surface and an inwardly facing surface having a curvate pocketformed by a central portion of the second baseplate's inwardly facingsurface concaving outwardly to define a semispherical contour, thecurvate pocket being surrounded by a circumferential wall and acircumferential recess; a convex structure having an outwardly facingsurface and an inwardly facing surface, the convex structure furtherhaving a central bore extending from the convex structure's inwardlyfacing surface to the convex structure's outwardly facing surface, thecentral bore being tapered to a larger diameter toward the convexstructure's inwardly facing surface and having an opening on the convexstructure's outwardly facing surface that is surrounded by a curvatetaper defining a semispherical contour, the curvate taper beingsurrounded by a circumferential recess and a circumferential wall, theconvex structure further having a recess adjacent the curvate taper; aball defining a spherical contour, the ball having a curvate recesshaving boundaries, the ball further having a central bore; and a ballbearing; wherein the ball is seatable in the curvate pocket; and whereinthe convex structure's outwardly facing surface is securable to thesecond baseplate's inwardly facing surface by a mating of the secondbaseplate's circumferential wall with the convex structure'scircumferential recess and a mating of the convex structure'scircumferential wall with the second baseplate's circumferential recess,the securing of the convex structure to the second baseplateestablishing a curvate socket formed by the second baseplate's curvatepocket and the convex structure's curvate taper, the curvate socketdefining a spherical contour, the securing of the convex structure tothe second baseplate aligning the convex structure's recess and theball's curvate recess; and wherein the ball is thereby capturable in thecurvate socket, with the curvate socket's spherical contouraccommodating the ball's spherical contour for rotation and angulationof the ball in the curvate socket about a central portion of the ball,and with the convex structure's recess and the ball's curvate recessaccommodating the ball bearing such that the ball's curvate recess'sboundaries define limits of rotation of the ball within the curvatesocket in that the ball's rotation within the curvate socket is limitedby interference between the ball bearing and the boundaries, and suchthat the boundaries accommodate angulation of the ball within thecurvate socket; and wherein the post is disposable through the convexstructure's central bore and the post's head end is securable to theball's central bore, such that the post is accommodated for rotation inthe convex structure's central bore about the post's longitudinal axisas the ball rotates in the curvate socket, and such that the post isaccommodated, by the convex structure's central bore being tapered, forangulation therein about the ball's central portion, as the ballangulates in the curvate socket.
 20. The artificial intervertebral discof claim 19, wherein each of the inwardly facing surface of the firstbaseplate and the inwardly facing surface of the convex structure has arespective perimeter region, and the ball's curvate recess's boundariesaccommodate angulation of the ball within the curvate socket at leastuntil the perimeter regions meet, and the post is accommodated, by theconvex structure's central bore being tapered, for angulation in theconvex structure's central bore about the ball's central portion, as theball angulates in the curvate socket, at least until the perimeterregions meet.